5 Lucrative Campus Jobs You Can Do and Still Graduate With First Class: Let’s be real university life in Nigeria isn’t cheap. From textbooks to handouts, data subscriptions to feeding, you’ll always need extra cash. But the fear many students have is this: “If I start working while in school, won’t it affect my grades?”
Well, the answer is no not if you pick the right kind of work.
In fact, many first-class graduates did one hustle or the other while still maintaining top grades. The key is choosing the right campus jobs that are flexible, not too time-consuming, and even help you grow academically or professionally.
5 smart works you can do on campus and still graduate with a First Class
Here are 5 smart works you can do on campus and still graduate with a First Class with real examples and tips for Nigerian students.
1. Academic Freelancing or Tutorial Business
If you’re good at explaining things to your coursemates or juniors, this is for you.
You can earn money by:
Organizing tutorials for 100 or 200 level students in your department
Writing assignments or projects (ethically) for students
Offering online tutoring on platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, or Google Meet
Example:
Chisom, a First Class graduate of Economics at UNN, ran tutorials every weekend for younger students. She charged ₦500 per student per class and made good money without affecting her GPA.
Why it works:
You’re revising while teaching. It sharpens your understanding and helps you retain more. It’s a win-win.
2. Graphic Design or Tech Skills (Remote Jobs)
Tech is the new oil. If you know how to design flyers, edit videos, build websites, or write code, you’re sitting on a goldmine.
Platforms like:
- Fiverr
- Upwork
- LinkedIn can connect you with international clients who pay in dollars.
Example:
Tunde, a First Class graduate from FUTA, learned UI/UX design in 200 level. By final year, he was working remotely for a startup in Lagos while attending classes. He never missed deadlines both for clients and lecturers.
Why it works:
Remote tech work gives you full control over your schedule. Most clients don’t care when you work just what you deliver.
3. Photography or Videography
This one pays well, especially in campuses with lots of events.
With a small camera or even a good phone, you can cover:
- Birthdays
- Convocations
- Departmental dinners
- Matriculations
You can also edit and post pictures for money or offer instant printing at events.
Example:
Joy, a First Class student from UNILAG, used her Sundays and public holidays to take photos at weddings. She was so good that she became her department’s official photographer.
Why it works:
Events mostly happen on weekends or after lectures, so it doesn’t clash with your academic schedule. Plus, creativity is a stress reliever.
4. Blogging, YouTube or TikTok Content Creation
If you love writing, talking, or being on camera, this is your thing. You can create helpful content around your student life, academics, tech tips, or lifestyle.
Monetize through:
- Google AdSense
- Affiliate marketing
- Brand partnerships
- Sponsored posts
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Example:
Emeka, a First Class student from UNIBEN, ran a blog that gave tips on JAMB, Post-UTME, and scholarships. His blog started earning him money in 300 level, and he used it to fund his final year project.
Why it works:
You decide your content schedule. You can create content during semester breaks or after classes. And the internet never sleeps your content keeps working for you even when you’re asleep.
5. On-Campus Fashion or Hair Business
If you have a creative hand, consider:
- Making wigs
- Braiding hair
- Sewing clothes
- Doing makeup for events
- With just basic tools and good word-of-mouth, you can grow fast.
Example:
Mariam, a First Class graduate from ABU Zaria, started making wigs for her friends in the hostel. She later had more than 20 steady customers and was earning steady weekly income all while maintaining her 4.70 CGPA.
Why it works:
These services are in high demand among female students. If you manage your time well, it won’t affect your studies.
Final Tips to Balance Work and Studies
Use a timetable: Know when to study, rest, and work.
Say NO when you’re overwhelmed: Not all money is good money.
Pick a hustle that complements your strength: If you’re good with books, teach. If you’re creative, design.
Avoid working during exam periods. Focus on passing first. The clients or customers will still be there.
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Conclusion
You don’t need to wait till after NYSC to start making money. But you also don’t have to sacrifice your grades to hustle.
There are many jobs you can do on campus smartly and responsibly and still graduate with a First Class. Just choose the one that fits your schedule, your strength, and your long-term goals.
Remember: It’s not just about the hustle — it’s about the balance. The purpose of this article is to encourage students, especially those who may need extra income to survive while in school. However, if you feel that working while studying will be too much for you to handle, it’s okay to focus solely on your primary goal your academics.
Also, please note that the examples and institution names mentioned in this article are used for illustrative and inspirational purposes only. They do not reflect actual events involving those specific students. However, from various universities across Nigeria, we have received genuine testimonies of students who engaged in different types of work on campus and still graduated with First Class degrees.
If you found this helpful, don’t forget to share it with someone on your campus group chat. You never know who might need it. Thanks
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