Reference: https://www.nwmissourinews.com Student Share By: Alex M. - Duke University http://www.duke.edu

During your last semester in college, there is only one thing that you are probably thinking about — getting a job. The tedious and long process may become tiresome, but in the end, it’s worth it.

Throughout the duration of your college experience, depending on your major, you may start to hear about the option to freelance rather than working for one company. This may sound like the route to take, but it isn’t a viable option.

Fresh out of college, your field experience is minimal. Majority of the work you have done comes from classes, internships or part-time jobs you had. Your four years are dedicated to learning, growing and experimenting. Therefore, after just receiving a diploma, you are not an expert.

No one is an expert though. With the constant advancement in numerous fields and things constantly changing, there is always something more to learn.

Depending on the field that you are going into, there is a possibility you can make more than the average job you may find. You can essentially choose your income depending on how much you charge for the work that you do, but that also depends on the experience and knowledge you may have.

Freelancing is a great opportunity for those who have been in their field and want to work towards something more. For college students, getting experience in the field beforehand is vital.

Freelancing as a full-time job can be a risky move for even the most skilled professional. It relies heavily on networking and promoting yourself and finding multiple opportunities that will pay enough for you to live off of.

Insurance of many forms can usually be offered by employers, giving them benefits and, sometimes, a cheaper option than what you may receive outside of the job. As a freelancer, you are not tied to one company for long enough to receive those benefits.

Insurance isn’t the only issue though. If you are unable to find a place to hire you, you are without income. For someone with heavy experience, it may not be hard to find a job to take on, but recently graduated students don’t fit that profile.

The Editorial Board believes that students need to be more cautious when considering the option to freelance full time after graduating. Securing a job first will set you up for success in the future if you decide to freelance.

Teachers need to recognize this too. In your time as a student, you may hear a professor tell you that freelancing would be a great fit for you. It should be clarified that freelancing part-time or as a “side-hustle” while also working a full-time job is the best route to take at first.

Students are constantly in learning mode, specifically when in the classroom. Telling a student that they can freelance may result in them thinking it is a full-time option for them when it isn’t. The average age for freelancers is 38 years old, according to Zippia.

Whether you are a student focusing in computer science, mass media, fine arts or writing, you may have heard about freelancing. Though we want to put our trust into the ones teaching us, everyone should keep in mind that they have years of experience and an established income.

Part-time freelancing can bring in extra income, allowing you to live comfortably. Most freelancers do work on a temporary basis. We recommend this for all students that have the opportunity. Not only is the money a perk, you are able to gain more knowledge along the way.

The industry is growing as more people are beginning their transition into freelancing. We see nothing wrong with the career path, but it is important to note the different challenges you may face if it’s the route you chose to take fresh out of college.