As a recent college grad, I know well the plight of the starving student. Sure, we all know classmates whose parents are furnishing an education and financing an extravagant lifestyle, but the rest of us have to learn how to make a dollar stretch. Between tuition, books, and daily living expenses, it can cost a lot to get a good education in today's world.

To that end, many of us have made a full-time job out of applying for scholarships and concocted new and abominable ways to prepare top ramen. But there is only so much we can do to the cost-side of the equation – eventually we need to find a way to supplement our income. Here five side jobs to accelerate your income.

Restaurant Industry

The food service industry includes fast food places, as well as other restaurants and bars. Positions include cashiers, hostesses, servers, line cooks, bartenders, and dishwashers. It’s not glamorous, nor is it especially lucrative, but this is a reliable way to close the gap between the money and the end of the month. Before applying for any of these jobs, consider if you would rather work in the front of the house in contact with guests, or if you rather be in the kitchen. These jobs are great for those who thrive in fast-paced environments, and some of them offer daily tips to take home after every shift.

Delivery Drivers

If you relish the idea of driving around and exploring your city, consider delivery driver positions. This could include pizza delivery, package handlers, or driving for local businesses such as florists. Additional driving jobs include cabs, buses, and other passenger vehicles. Some of these may require a CDL, but some companies may furnish the training and certification.

Installation Services 

If you like the idea of working with your hands and enjoy problem solving, apply to be an installation or service technician for a business. Options include your local cable company, security companies such as ADT home security systems, or repair services for appliances or other home issues. Each offers its own set of challenges.

Customer Service Representatives

 Many businesses need good customer service representatives to work for them. Different positions include those you can do from your home or in an office setting. You'll have a strict set of rules and conduct codes you need to follow to ensure every customer receives consistent and quality help from the company.

Retail Workers

If you have a flair for selling, check into working at your favorite retail establishment. Some stores work on flat hourly wages, while others work on commission and/or performance bonuses. As an added benefit, you may get an employee discount for the things you already buy.

Even if you are making ends meet every month, it doesn't hurt to check in side jobs to accelerate your income. Many offer flexible hours, and will help provide extra padding in your bank account, in case of any unforeseen hardships in the future.