If you want to release your inner Kerouac, you can flex your writing muscles as a side job. Writing opportunities abound online, depending on your previous experience and skill level. You can pen anything from a how-to blog post to a ghostwritten manifesto for the hottest new startup in town. Writers are always in demand, and not just for the usual suspects (media companies, publications, etc.); a number of fields utilize writers — marketing, social media, public relations and education, to name a few. Getting your foot in the door can be the trickiest part, but once you’re in, establishing a network and a solid portfolio of your work can help you rise through the ranks.

Degrees/Experience Required: Some writing jobs will require a bachelor’s degree, while others will prefer a degree in journalism. If you specialize in a certain style of writing (such as medical writing, for example), you may need advanced degrees. One important thing to consider: When you’re a writer, experience often counts for more than education — and who you know is also a factor. Writing for other magazines, websites or blogs can often open doors faster than a 4.0 GPA. Working your way up from smaller, niche publications to establish a premise for your work is one way to get the ball rolling. Be prepared to provide a variety of writing samples, or even to complete an assignment or two before landing your first job.

Types of Jobs Available: Unless you’re facing daily deadlines, you can write whenever you want, especially if you get “inspired” at 3 a.m. Writers are hired for both full-time or part-time jobs, but many writers choose to freelance for a variety of companies, allowing them to completely customize their schedules. Job titles in the writing field include technical writer, blogger, freelance writer and freelance editorial assistant, among others.