21 y.o as a student, intern, tutor & supper owner?

Just before turning 21, I made a promise to myself: to explore everything I could before “real adulthood” kicks in. Turns out, I took that pretty literally because, fast forward, here I am, wearing multiple hats all at once! From a final-year uni student to an intern at a local fashion brand, a part-time tutor, and now, the co-founder of a new supper truck @ NTU.

Dropping my 2 cents from lessons learnt along the way:

🧗🏻‍♀️ 1. Choosing the right path for YOURSELF.

Last year, I faced a tough choice. I was offered a spot in 2 unis. Four years at a local uni or 1.5 years at a private one. Studying isn't my thing—I’ve always found it draining, but I knew I needed that certificate. I wanted to work, to start saving, so that I can be a young mum and start a family when im still young. To achieve that, I needed to start early. So, I chose the faster route, freeing up more time to focus on myself and work while having less academic stress. That was the best decision for me because it granted me soooo much more freedom and time to experience things.

🪄 2. Honesty First! (Especially with Your Boss)

If you’re considering an internship while studying, transparency is key. It’s tempting to lie about your availability to secure an internship, but it often backfires if you can’t keep up with the expectations. I’ve seen it happen to others, and trust me, bosses don’t appreciate it. Clear communication about your schedule ensures realistic goals and less dissapointment. Pro tip: Smaller startups can be more flexible, so don’t hesitate to try them out if you need a bit more room in your schedule!

🤗 3. Build Your Cheer Squad

Surround yourself with people who can help you push through the looong days. The supper truck is founded by both my partner and I, and both of us are in uni. We really are just holding onto each other for moral support and it really makes life more bearable. Finding time to meet your friends, going out to eat with your family, can be a good break from all the chaos. I do admit my social life is quite limited but I am contented with the people around me! I am a strong believer of quality>quantity hehe :3

☁️ 4. Give Yourself a True Rest Day (At Least One!)

It’s easy to feel like you should always be hard working but burnout is real, and it’s sneaky. That’s why its very important to allocate a specific time/day to rest!! my rest day is saturday and when I say that I am afk, really am. altho there are pockets of time where I will check my computer and catch up on work that I did not finish, I will still allow myself to sleep in, and watch my shows. truth be told 1 out of 2 of my saturdays will probably have work/plans, but I make it a MUST to have time to rest!!!!

💆 5. It’s More Than Okay to Take a Break

In the midst of all the hustle, it’s easy to overlook your health. Recently, I’ve been getting sick more frequently, and I take it as a reminder from my body. I’ve learned that productivity doesn’t have to come at the cost of well-being, and in fact, when my physical health is poor, my quality of work drops. so now, if I’m not feeling well, I don’t hesitate to step back, rest, and recover fully. Taking a break isn’t a setback. It is to make sure that you’re in the best shape to continue reaching your goals. So, pay attention to those signs and prioritize your health pleaseee 🙂

soo to answer the main question, HOW DO I DO IT??? The answer is, just do it. There is really nothing stopping you from doing anything other than yourself. If you want to earn more money, go look for a job. If you want to boost your portfolio, go send in your resumes to companies. if you want to make the best of your time, go find meaningful things to do. Don’t belittle yourself, and test your limits. You might be the next steve jobs! you never know 🙂

#livelovelaugh