Assess your current job expertise and identify skills that could translate into consulting or freelance work. For instance, if you’re a writer, editor, designer, or developer, platforms like Upwork and Fiverr can connect you with clients in need of your specific skills.
To begin, take up 1-2 clients or projects while maintaining your full-time job. This allows you to ease into freelancing or consulting without the risk of getting overwhelmed, protecting both your primary employment and your professional reputation.
Once you’re confident, consider reinvesting a small portion of your earnings into enhancing your services—whether by purchasing necessary software, upgrading your equipment, or taking relevant courses to up-skill. However, make sure to allocate the majority of your earnings directly toward paying off your student loans.
If you’re still unsure where to start, check out this article where I share everything you need to know to start earning on the side.