Worried about not having enough experience to build your resume before you enter the real world? You're not alone. Many college athletes struggle finding the time to pursue internships or jobs because of their busy schedules. But college athletes learn a ton of life skills through their sport that can apply to the real world, too, so you may be more prepared to build your resume (or just earn some extra cash!) than you think. Here are just a few examples of great job opportunities for college athletes.

Related: 4 Tips for Marketing Your Student Athlete Experience in a Job Interview

Lifeguarding 

Lifeguarding is a relatively easy, decent-paying job that almost always has openings. Most places will work around your schedule, or have shorter shifts you can sign up for in between classes and practice. I was a lifeguard during my time as a student athlete and I would sign up for shifts after practice from 7-9pm, which allowed me to still get to bed at a decent time. Most places also allow you to study or read during your down time, so you don't have to worry about getting behind on schoolwork with a job like this. Head over to your campus recreation center to see if the pool has any openings.

Related: Rate your Coaches, Facilities, and Campus Visits

Research Internships 

Research internships are convenient opportunities and they look good on resumes as well. Most of them are remote, especially in the aftermath of COVID. These internships offer you the flexibility of working around your busy schedule since they usually have you completing work on your own time. They can also be quite interesting depending on what topic you're focusing on, and allow you to strengthen valuable skills you already possess as an athlete such as time management and communication.

Babysitting 

Babysitting jobs are simple (depending on the kids…), and pretty easy to get since they are in high demand. They don't require much experience and you may even get a free meal out of it. I would recommend just offering to babysit on weekends, because it will probably be harder to fit into your schedule on weekdays. Instead of your usual Saturday plans, take a break one weekend and earn some quick cash by dedicating a couple hours to babysitting.

Related: Money-Saving Tips for Student-Athletes

College Athletic Department 

I recommend this more for those who are in a major that requires them to do an internship as one of their courses. For certain majors, instead of taking classes, students are required to do an internship for credit. If you are in this boat, try looking at opportunities in your school's athletic department. I worked as a marketing intern for my universities' athletic department, and they were very lenient with my schedule since they understand what student athletes go through probably more than any other department on campus. You also get to experience working at other sporting events, which was a nice change of scenery in my opinion. If you aren't doing an internship for credit but are still interested, see if they have part time or volunteer options. These opportunities are great for those majoring in sports management.

2aDays

Last, but of course not least, 2aDays is a great option. Our company understands your schedule as a student athlete probably more than any other company you have or will ever work for. It is fully remote, and you are not required to attend meetings everyday which allows you to have the freedom to work on your own time. Playing a sport in college will actually be beneficial for a position here because you will be able to incorporate your experience into the assignments. The experience is extremely hands-on and will look exceptional on your resume–plenty of former interns have landed great sports-minded jobs after completing their internships. Click here for more information.

You don't have to fall into the stereotype that college athletes don't have any work experience—there are jobs out there for you if you're willing to look. Many of them are even interested in college athletes specifically because of the valuable skills you are guaranteed to possess. Get your foot in the door early so you're prepared when it's time to graduate.

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* Originally published on August 3, 2022, by Sammie Grant