Tri University: 3 Lucrative Jobs Any College Triathlete Can Do
"Tri University" columnist Kristin Goett shares three jobs that will help student triathletes balance training, studying, and building the necessary cash.
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College is tough on the wallet. Triathlon is also tough on the wallet. Combine the two and you’re most certainly pinching pennies. Between attending class (read: sleeping in the back row after swim practice), studying, and training, time is precious, but so is having cold, hard, cash. Check out these three side hustle jobs for college student athletes.
Walk It Off…with a Dog
This is the tried-and-true job for young, energetic people: dog walking. You’re already up early; Why not walk someone’s dog and get paid while you’re at it?! In all seriousness, dog walking can get you some of that green paper quickly and easily.
Know of a professor, friend, elderly neighbor who would like an hour of their day back? Ask them if you can walk their fur-baby in the morning and the evening. You could build a lucrative business!
Two Birds, One Stone
Half the hassle of training is getting to the gym. There are tons of excuses not to go – a new TV drama to binge, a paper to write, a fresh bag of chips on the counter… I digress. Whether it’s the on-campus rec centers or a local gym in town, be on the lookout for an opportunity to become a gym attendant.
Gym attendants are responsible for ensuring all weights are racked, equipment is cleaned, and membership cards are swiped. This job is a fantastic way to kill two birds with one stone, so to speak – you’re already at the gym, why not swim, run, or lift when your shift ends? No excuses here, folks.
Brawn and Brains
Triathletes are known to be a smart bunch. After all, triathlon is a “thinking” sport, meaning there is thoughtful strategy put behind every race execution. For many racers, their strategic thinking during competition translates well to the classroom.
Whether you’re studying science, math, communications or anthropology, chances are there’s a topic someone needs help with. If there is a course in which you particularly excel, ask around to see if fellow students need tutoring on the latest chapter, problem set, or reading passage.
Not only will you earn a few bucks, but other students will benefit from the tutelage, which is definitely something to feel good about.
BONUS: Put the Pedal to the Metal…
…and apply for a job at the local bike, run, or athletics shop. Nearly all college towns have at least one of the three, whether it’s a mom-and-pop shop or chain department store.
Working alongside fellow athletes will present a new community of activity-loving, hardworking, money-making friends. Plus, your boss is more likely to understand the unique scheduling needs of training and studying than those at other shift-based jobs.
Did I just see your wallet smile a little? I think I did. No fear, collegiate triathletes, jobs await you in abundance! Go forth and earn that money – which we all know will be quickly spent on triathlon.