By Kaitlin Sonday, 25, of Lincoln, Nebraska, has worked at Target for over six years, starting as a student while pursuing her B.A. in animal science at the University of Nebraska. Despite earning her degree in 2020, Sonday has no intention of using it for a career in the field. Instead, she continues to thrive in her retail job and as a TikTok influencer.
Work at Target and Social Media Side Hustle
Sonday currently works in the beauty section at Target, earning $16.50 per hour, which is significantly higher than Nebraska’s $12 minimum wage. Her hours typically fluctuate, with her weekly schedule ranging around 35 hours, earning an estimated $30,000 annually. In addition, Sonday supplements her income through social media, primarily TikTok, where she shares product tips, social media strategies, and budgeting advice. Her TikTok following has grown to over 70,000, and partnerships with brands like Skims, EOS, and Rare Beauty have earned her about $10,000 annually.
Financial Success and Homeownership
Sonday’s financial success is evident: she purchased a $205,000 home in 2021 with help from the NeighborWorks nonprofit, which provided a $10,000 loan for the down payment and another $15,000 for repairs. This assistance makes homeownership more accessible to many young people. She currently shares the property with a roommate, who contributes $580 towards her $1,400 monthly mortgage. With utilities, her phone bill, Wi-Fi, and other living expenses, Sonday maintains a budget and saves about $20,000.
Living Below Median Income but Managing Well
Despite earning less than the median household income in Lancaster County, Sonday is relatively comfortable due to her frugal lifestyle. Her Target employee discount helps reduce grocery costs, and she’s been driving the same 2011 Hyundai Elantra since she was 16. Sonday credits her careful money management for her ability to enjoy life and still build savings.
Career and Lifestyle Balance
Sonday initially pursued animal science but realized that most animal-related jobs pay poorly unless they require an advanced degree. Instead, she embraced social media marketing, combining her retail work with a creative outlet. Sonday enjoys the flexibility of her Target job, which allows her to travel extensively, having taken six weeks off to visit Italy twice.
Though she faces occasional challenges, particularly with staffing during peak holiday seasons, Sonday is happy with her choice. She emphasizes that working in retail is not a “dead-end job” and can offer great opportunities, especially when paired with a side hustle.
A Positive Outlook on Retail Work
Sonday’s story highlights the evolving landscape of retail jobs and side hustles. For her, retail isn’t just a stepping stone but a fulfilling career option that provides financial stability and flexibility. She believes that not everyone needs to follow a conventional career path to be successful and that pursuing a career that fits your lifestyle is just as valid.
Kaitlin Sonday’s experience shows that it’s possible to thrive in retail, even while pursuing passions outside the traditional career path.
