2. Alumni event planning

The nitty-gritty: Multitasking can take on a whole new meaning in this position. This is detail-oriented work that requires lots of behind-the-scenes labor leading up to a major event such as a class reunion or campus conference. Now and then you might take the show on the road to alums in their hometowns.

The hours can really pile up out as the big day approaches and during the event itself, which is often on a weekend or evening. You could be scheduling speakers, drafting a program agenda, registering guests, coordinating transportation and setting up audio/visual equipment. You might handle contract negotiations to book off-campus venues and hire outside parties such as photographers, musicians or florists.

Median pay: $21.76 per hour

Qualifications: Ease with computers, including social media such as Facebook and LinkedIn, and a knack for managing a budget. Experience in hospitality, catering or public relations will help. Some colleges offer continuing education courses in event planning; the Convention Industry Council offers the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) credential, a voluntary certification for meeting and convention planners.

3. Career center counselor

The nitty-gritty: This one's for your inner mentor. It offers you a chance to give back some of your own career expertise. Think of yourself as a matchmaker: you put students and alums together with something they love through networking, suggestions, employer interviews, internships and more.

You'll probably find yourself the interpreter of a battery of vocational assessment tests. You hone résumés and cover letters with smooth wordsmithing. You dole out dress-for-success and etiquette advice for interviews. You rehearse your charges with mock interviews. Chances are, you'll be called to develop and present career education workshops for small groups and help run career fairs.

Median pay: $25.67 per hour.

Qualifications: Familiarity with national career trends and labor markets. Experience in general counseling, career counseling, human resources, education or career development.

The International Coach Federation has a list of certification programs and offers its own certification. Recognition as a National Certified Counselor or licensing as a professional counselor is sometimes preferred. Some employers might require a master's degree in counseling or higher education.

Need more information on counseling? The Bureau of Labor Statistic's Occupational Outlook Handbook suggests the American Counseling Association, the National Career Developers Association and the National Board for Certified Counselors.

Next: Share your love for books in this fast-paced role. »