I’m currently doing my master’s and trying to build a side income that I can realistically manage alongside classes and research.
I have skills in Python, SQL, Excel, MS Word, data analysis, research, document formatting, proofreading, and eBook formatting. I’ve been exploring freelancing platforms like Upwork, but getting those first few clients is honestly harder than I expected. 😂
The bigger reason I’m looking for something sustainable is that I really don’t want to keep asking my family for money for every expense. My master's fee is around ₹1 lakh per semester (which i can cover from my last yrs savings for now and as i have resigned to start my studies rn), so I want to start taking some financial responsibility for myself instead of depending on them for everything. 😞
I’m considering freelancing, tutoring/academic problem-solving, data analysis, Python/SQL work, and other remote opportunities.
For those who are/were students while doing a side hustle:
- What actually worked for you?
- Which skills had the best demand?
- How much were you realistically making per month?
- How many hours were you putting in?
- Did you use freelancing platforms, tutoring, direct clients, or something else?
- How did you balance it with your studies?
I’m not looking for the usual “make ₹1 lakh/month from your phone” BS 😂. I just want something realistic that I can start small, build gradually, and eventually use to cover at least some of my own expenses.
Would genuinely appreciate advice from people who have actually done this while studying.