November 7, 2025


Law Student Earns $1.5 Million a Year Through Unconventional Side Hustle

In an era where student loans can be a daunting burden, one first-year law student at the University of Michigan has found a lucrative way to manage her finances. Emily Cocea is not only immersed in the demanding studies of a T14 law school but is also making a splash online with a side profession that is far from the norm in her field. Cocea earns $1.5 million annually by creating and selling adult content on the internet.

Speaking to People magazine, Cocea shared her experience at the law school, noting that her classmates and the school environment have been incredibly supportive. "Everyone here is really respectful and fantastic. I haven’t had any negative experiences," she said. This acceptance has allowed her to pursue her studies while maintaining her profitable side business.

Cocea’s entry into the world of adult content was not just about the financial benefits; she has a vision for her future. Despite the earnings that dwarf many entry-level positions at prestigious law firms, commonly referred to as 'Biglaw' jobs, Emily is committed to a career in public defense. Her goal is to advocate for those who cannot afford legal representation, a passion that is often nurtured in the halls of law schools across the country.

Her story brings to light the diverse ways students fund their education and manage living expenses. With the cost of law school tuition being notably high, Cocea’s approach provides a stark contrast to the typical narratives of student debt and financial struggle.

The fusion of her law studies and her side profession raises interesting questions about the changing dynamics of professional life and personal choices in the digital age. As society embraces diverse career paths and unconventional means of income, stories like Cocea’s may become more common, particularly in the face of rising educational costs.

As Emily continues her journey through law school, her story is not just about making money; it's about breaking stereotypes, challenging norms, and perhaps most importantly, about using her skills and resources to forge a path that is uniquely her own.