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The modern day economy is changing, and the jobs that used to be readily available for college students have shifted. This new economy is called a lot of things: the small-job economy, the freelance economy, the micro-gig economy. But there is a common factor around it: more college students are opting to become independent contractors and work on their own terms, versus pursuing "regular" jobs in school.

This isn't a bad thing. The small job economy is giving college students more options when it comes to earning an income during school. It's also opening up opportunities for jobs that have never existed in the past.

The Freelance Economy

Today's freelance economy is a huge benefit to college students. There are more ways than ever for college students to earn an small income while still going to school. More and more companies are looking to hire freelancers, especially in the online space.

There are countless jobs available for freelancers. UpWork, one of the largest freelance job board websites, currently has over 3 million jobs posted each year. These jobs range from programming and technical work, to freelance writing and other paid gigs. In the college student freelance sector, CertificationPoint, has began to establish itself in a unique niche with hundreds of jobs posted each year.

Why freelancing works well for college students is that they can do it on their own time. No need to worry about class schedules, finals, and more. Online freelance work can be done anytime and anywhere - from a dorm room to the library. All while earning a decent income.

The Sharing Economy

The sharing economy also plays a huge role for the income of college students. More and more college students are finding ways to make money by renting and sharing the things they already own.

Today, many of the headlines are driven by the "Uber-ization" of everything. Ride sharing is huge, and college students are taking advantage of it by sharing their time and driving skills to make extra money.

However, the sharing economy has also encouraged students to rent their things: from the houses and rooms (a.k.a AirBnB), to their textbooks, bicycles, camping gear, and more. There are sites Rentything, which allows students to create postings and advertise things they want to rent.

All of these "small jobs" allow college students to boost their income while still going to school.

Why This Works Well For College Students

College students and millennials want flexibility in their work environments. They are also online, on social media, and open to trying new things. That's why the small job economy works for their benefit.

College students can focus on earning more money, while at the same time finishing their education and still hang out with their friends.

As the world becomes more location-independent, companies will continue to look for the best talent anywhere in the world. The skills that college students gain from taking advantage of these changes will only continue to serve them later in life.