From Classrooms to Cashflows.

      The power of starting a side hustle in university

by Joseph Owino Adongon

College life is possibly the most exciting period in a young adult's life. It is a time of new learning, new friendships, and endless possibilities. However, besides the classes and examinations, it also affords a great chance to build a platform for future success.

Those students who mix classroom learning with real-world experience have an absolute and lasting edge in Kenya's changing economy. Starting a side business is possibly the best way to achieve this. Besides generating additional income, a side business exposes students to useful skills, helps them acquire professional networks, and creates the confidence to survive after graduation.

             Photo  SIMON MAINA | Credit: AFP via Getty Images

A Side Hustle is More Than Just Extra Income

A side business is not only a source of extra income, but it is also a great way for university students to gain real-world skills that they can use later in life. Whether it's a used sale, printing business, or phone credit selling, having a small business helps students learn valuable skills in budgeting, marketing, customer service, and decision-making.

 These skills are highly appreciated by employers, and they can also form the foundation of lucrative business initiatives in the future even after graduation. To the majority of students, HELB money is crucial in funding their studies. Instead of using this loan just for tuition and living costs, it can be invested wisely to help start a small business alongside. The HELB funds can be utilized by the students as initial capital to buy stock, start a website, or invest in equipment required such as a computer or design software. This way, they can begin their business early as they are still in school. This strategy helps them generate additional income as well as exposing them to real-world skills, making them a step ahead of others in Kenya's growing economy..

 Freelancing, a lucrative opportunity

Freelancing is also a great opportunity for students. Academic writing, graphic design, social media management, and virtual assistance are all locally and internationally in demand. With a smartphone, laptop, and internet connection, you can leverage freelance sites and social media groups to get paying clients. Every project done not only makes money but also creates a professional portfolio, provides quality experience, and develops a network. These are all vital to long-term professional success.

On-Campus jobs, gaining experience while earning

Campus jobs offer students a chance to make money in flexible hours while acquiring real work experience. Part-time work at the library, cafeteria, administrative office, or tutoring center teaches practical skills like time management, self-discipline, teamwork, and professionalism. From these experiences, students learn to juggle school and ready themselves for the demands of the working world.

Content creation, a Growing industry for young people

Content creation, a growing industry for young people Producing content has become a meaningful and profitable occupation for contemporary students. Platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook enable them to post stories of life on campus, personal testimony, study tips, or trending issues. By posting regularly and creatively, students can find a devoted following and land deals with brands. In search of authentic micro-influencers, brands have made producing content an actual and lucrative career path for young content producers.

 Internships, building experience for the future

 Internships provide students valuable experience in the working world as they are still in school. Through early application and demonstration of good skills, students can secure internships in marketing, media, IT, and administration. Even poorly paid internships bring useful experience, professional contacts, and opportunities to network and meet people that increase a graduate's prospect of securing employment.

 In summary, starting a side hustle as a university student is no longer a choice. It's a strategic necessity. A side hustle allows students to acquire practical skills, work experience, networks, and income while still pursuing their studies. In Kenya's rapidly changing and evolving economy, opportunities don't knock; they are created by individuals who are self-motivated and eager to excel. True success in today's age will be in the hands of those who not only get degrees but go the extra mile, obtain employable skills, and network during their time in school. Having a side hustle is one of the greatest choices that Kenyan university students can ever make for their future.