Most college students tend to be lacking in funds.  Unless you’re one of the lucky kids who still receive an allowance from your parents, you could probably use a little extra cash.  You could get a job, but it’s much easier to try some of these simple ways for college students to make money.

1.  Recycle aluminum cans

After the weekend is over, dumpsters around most college campuses are filled with empty aluminum cans.  You can earn some easy money if you gather up the cans and take them to a nearby recycling center.  If you live in a state that pays per can, such as New York, you could earn a hefty paycheck.

2.  Volunteer to become a research subject

This one works best if you go to a large school, since large schools tend to do a lot of research.  Colleges are always looking for subjects to do research on, and are usually willing to pay you in return for being a guinea pig.

3.  Go scavenging on move-out day

Over the course of the year some students accumulate a large amount of “stuff.”  When move out day comes around they realize they can’t fit all that “stuff” in their car, and are forced to drop it off in the dumpster or give it to a friend.  This gives you a great opportunity to get plenty of free things, some of which you may have use for, and the rest you could sell.  I once scored myself a free 48 inch TV at the end of sophomore year.

4.  Start your own business

Ok.  So this one requires a little more work, but not only will it make you money, it will give you valuable resume building experience.  And even though this defeats the goal of not having to get a job, at least you’ll be working for yourself.  Plus, as long as you enjoy the work you’re doing,  it will seem easy.  To learn more about why you should consider starting your own business in college, check back next Tuesday.