Earning Money in College via Plasma or Part-Time work

There are many ways to earn money in college and students are always on the look for opportunities to give them spending money. Most college students are broke and with a heavy course load and lots of studying there is often little time for a job. Another reason students often have empty wallets, even those who manage their money closely, is because employers are usually interested in employees who have college degrees. Twenty years ago a high school diploma was enough to land most people a job, but in today's competitive market, a college degree is usually a minimum requirement.

Donating Plasma in College

Many people have already realized the benefits that donating plasma can have on their wallet. If you are able to pass the tests given, such as protein count, HIV/AIDS background check, and white blood cell count, then giving plasma is a great way to earn extra income while at the same time helping to save someone's life. The plasma that is donated is given to those suffering from medical illnesses such as hemophilia. Donating, or rather selling, plasma is a quick way to earn some extra money for gas or food. The sad truth is that most people would not be in the plasma center getting the plasma removed from their blood if there was not a financial reward. Donating plasma is fast, easy, and can be a great way for money. The only negative side effects usually include dizziness, fatigue, and unsightly/ unattractive marks left over from the needle. Plasma donors have few responsibilities for keeping their weekly plasma money other than staying hydrated by drinking lots of water and by not participating is AIDS risky behavior.

The best part-time jobs for a student

A good part-time job can be a great way to multitask in college. It allows the student to study and pursue his degree while at the same time earning income on the side. A good part-time job will give the student enough energy to lead a busy life and also earn enough money to make it worth the time and effort. Part-time jobs are hard to come by because employers prefer someone who is very flexible with their hours in case unforeseen circumstances arise at the workplace. However, a class schedule is not flexible and missing class is a decision that should be made in the worst case scenario. Missing a day of class once or twice for work can quickly be made up for and is not something to worry about because it can be easy to catch up on the work. However, on days of tests or when assignments are due, a change in your work schedule would be an unfortunate situation and one where you may want to speak with the manager, especially if your priorities include graduating with a high grade point average.

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College students are notoriously broke because they are still getting used to balancing their budgets and making sure the money being spent is a necessity and not a want. Learning to balance your finances is an added benefit of college, and is an important lesson to learn in life. When considering if college is right for you or not, make sure to understand the vast amount of experience which is acquired as a student. College is not just textbook knowledge and memorizing definitions, just as a career won't include the same problems and situations everyday. College is a great time to learn flexibility and time management as a young adult. Learning that success is directly related to the amount of effort that is dedicated to the problem is an essential aspect of maturing.

College students will always find creative ways to make a dollar while they await their degree that will launch them into a career which will earn a much higher income. Speaking with an old friend who I studied with, he laughed at all the ridiculous ways he cut corner to save a dollar or two, and realizes that he would never do anything like that now that he has a steady income and has found work that he enjoys. This friend cut corners by doing laundry once a month (because without a washer or dryer is can cost up to four dollars per load of laundry!). He also was known for living off of Ramen noodles, which are cheap but filling; however, ramen noodles lack nutrition and are not part of a healthy or balanced diet.