What do you think about doing massage therapy as a part time job to help pay...

[smackxgarden]

...for college? I am considering going through massage therapy certification and doing that as a part time job to help pay my way through college since I won't receive much financial aid and am trying to avoid student loans. Would this be a somewhat wise or reasonable decision to pursue?
Massage therapy would also continue to be a part time job for me after college; I'm hoping on being a writer/photojournalist and getting a Masters degree or two.

 

[Sabeena]

These days it's good to diversify your income. Opportunities for massage, writing and photojournalism are all mainly part-time. You can maximize your income and avoid burn out in all areas. Good thinking!

Massage hours are flexible. It can pay higher per hour than other part-time jobs, so you can work less and have more time to pursue other interests...after you build a clientele. You have to spend a lot of time at first building up a client base. It takes most people years, but I had more business than I could handle 4 months after I was licensed. So it CAN be done quickly.

If you are self-employed, you typically bring home about 50% of every dollar you charge clients, after expenses and 'extra' work. Average price is $60 per hour, so you'll keep $30. If you are employed you will make $15-$25 an hour plus tip. If you find work at a high-paying salon it's actually a better deal.

Be ready for a lot of 'hidden' expenses involved in massage: licenses that have to be renewed every year or two, continuing education, malpractice insurance, etc.

In my opinion massage is ONLY a good choice for a secondary or supplemental source of income. Go for it!

 

[Suddenly Human]

Sure, why not. If you have the cash to pay for it.
Cause you won't get any federal financial aid for it.