A defining moment for me was moving solo from Penang to Kuala Lumpur to study at Universiti Malaya. I had never traveled beyond Penang, so I was stepping into the unknown, and it felt like an endless journey of adapting, growing, and often facing loneliness. One of my biggest challenges was managing a tight budget—I was determined not to ask my dad for extra money, so I stretched every ringgit, learning the value of living within my means.
This experience deepened my financial awareness and taught me the importance of resourcefulness, balancing study and spending. I became someone who values financial independence and resilience. Today, I’m still driven by these lessons, seeking new knowledge and meaningful ways to contribute to others, with discipline, curiosity, and self-reliance as my closest allies.
Looking back, I’d tell my younger self to be bold in advocating for her ambitions. Rather than waiting quietly for recognition, I’d encourage her to take charge—plan her next steps, make her value known, and connect with the right people along the way. I’d also stress the importance of finding mentors and building a circle of supportive, experienced people. I missed this guidance early on, and it would have made a huge difference.Â
Finally, I’d tell her not to shy away from managing emotions and building resilience—these are essential for navigating life’s ups and downs. Had I embraced these practices earlier, I might have also pursued a dynamic career in lifestyle retail, a path I left behind too soon.
Lay Tin, Subang Jaya
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