I’ve always been a fan of odd jobs and side hustles, as you might gather from the side hustle series on Make Money Your Way. Today, let’s explore a field that can be perfect for a career or a side job for students: online gaming.

With the rapid growth of online activities, it was inevitable that gambling and casino games would also transition to the digital world, allowing people to play from the comfort of their own homes. Websites like Casino.com enable you to register quickly and choose from a range of games, including Blackjack and European roulette. You can play as much or as little as you want, at times that suit your busy life, without having to travel anywhere.

But how can online gaming help pay your bills? I remember a traveler I hosted who talked about financing his travels through online pokies. He would play online for a few hours each day, which was sufficient for him. The trick, he said, was to find less experienced players to compete against. Occasionally, for the thrill, he’d join bigger tournaments, taking a real gamble because he enjoyed the adrenaline rush. For him, it was more like a full-time job.

Casinos are in the business to make money, so not everyone wins all the time. However, if you approach it wisely, you might just come out ahead. Be very cautious if you’re thinking about making money through online gaming. Never bet money you can’t afford to lose. For example, if you start with $50 and it grows to $100, withdraw your initial investment and play with the remaining amount.

The key is to play for the long term. Slow and steady wins the race. It’s wiser to place many small bets rather than rely on one big win to make a living. By spreading out your risk, you’re less likely to face significant losses. Avoid getting emotional, and keep your stakes low to increase your chances of winning. My poker-playing friend mentioned that he won about 70% of the time—not perfect, but still above 50%. Patience is crucial. If you enter a $10 game, risking $10 to win $20, and play 10 games with a 70% success rate, you would invest $100 and make $140. That’s a solid return, as long as you stay calm and aren’t tempted to bet more in a winning streak.

Moreover, ensure you stay focused and sharp while playing. If you’re serious about winning, minimize mistakes. Start with playing an hour a day and gradually increase your time. Remember, you can’t perform well after staring at a screen for ten hours straight. Treat it like a business and be professional. Good luck!