I did everything right. I did well in high school, went to a great university, graduated with a degree I could be proud of and I even got a job!

That pays next to nothing.

A few months before graduating, I decided to try something totally new and went to work for a non-profit. Although I know I’m doing great work for a worthy cause, giving back to society in my current position doesn’t make near enough to be “big ballin” as they say.

So how do I pay my bills AND go out for happy hour? Welcome to the hustle a.k.a. doing freelance work to make some extra cash.

Figure out what you’re good at: Write down five hobbies/interest and five skills. Do you love fashion or cooking? Do you like to run or make pottery? Are you organized, articulate, web savvy, etc? It can be anything, just write it down! Read More »

Oh, graduates.

Moving back in with the parents after graduation is normal. You are deeply depressed, broke and not quite ready to face the harsh realities that come after 4 glorious college years. At least this is what I told myself.

Your boxes are still packed and piled not-so-neatly in your parents’ garage. Your bedroom floor is covered in pictures (that you cry over every night before bed), drafts of your resume and, of course, already-read issues of US Weekly and (recently deceased) Jane Magazine.

Unfortunately, it is now officially the middle of the summer and it is time to get that ass in gear. No more devoting your days to tanning poolside. No more evenings spent on the phone with friends who are also living at home and avoiding the real world.

It is time to get up and move on. Read More »