A side hustle is a way to make money outside of your primary job or studies. Side hustles are often freelance work but could include taking on short-term jobs or selling products or services online. Hear from recent graduate Keir, on how he ran a side hustle alongside his degree.
After over 800 haircuts across three years, finishing university also marks the end of my time as a barber. Running a small business alongside my degree was a juggling act, but it taught me so much about time management, resilience, and people skills.
I began cutting hair during lockdown, giving free haircuts when schools reopened but barbers stayed shut. This early experience was my minimum viable product (MVP): rough, free haircuts that let me practice and improve without pressure. Through consistent practice, I honed my skills and eventually started charging £15 per cut, offering fades, perms, hot towel shaves, dye jobs, and even women’s haircuts.
Balancing haircuts with my studies required flexibility and organisation. Clients often needed last-minute appointments for special occasions, which meant being available at all hours, sometimes as early as 6 am or as late as midnight. To manage this alongside lectures, assignments, and group projects, I set up a booking system and carefully planned my schedule. Some days I cut hair before, in between, and after university commitments.
Being self-taught also showed me the value of trust and consistency. Being trusted over the high street barbers meant I had to always produce my best work for my clients, no matter the circumstances. I ran giveaways to give back and build loyalty, and every year I raised money for Movember. These experiences helped me develop sales, marketing, and interpersonal skills that I know will be useful in any career.
If there’s one lesson I’d pass on, it’s just to start. Don’t wait for the perfect setup – practising, making mistakes, and learning as you go is what allows you to grow. Barbering alongside university has been challenging at times, but it’s also been one of the most rewarding experiences of my student life. I’ve gained practical skills, met amazing people, and learned lessons I’ll carry into my career and beyond.
Interested in running your own side hustle or freelancing business?
- Book onto our Little Impacts #2: Freelancing 101 on Tuesday 21 October, 2 pm to 4 pm
- Check out our Self-employment: Freelancing and side hustles guide
- Have more questions? Email us at basecamp@bristol.ac.uk
