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For a year, Ainol Mardhiah Mohd Jamani survived on just RM2 worth of egg tofu almost every day, stretching her RM1,000 study loan to get by
So when she moved on to the next stage of her studies, she was determined to find work to support herself.
The 22-year-old English for Communication student now has experience from several jobs, and more importantly, savings for her education.
"I decided to work to cover my daily expenses and reduce my parents' financial burden.
"Since I rent outside campus, I need a minimum amount each month to cover rent, food and emergency transport in case I miss the bus," she told SAYS.
Ainol receives a student loan but still has to work to get by on campus.
Image via Ainol Mardhiah (Provided to SAYS)The eldest of three receives about RM2,500 from Yayasan Kelantan each semester, which she uses to cover her fees and rent.
"If my salary is delayed, I have no choice but to use that money for food.
"It's not enough to live comfortably, but if I exclude food, household expenses and transport, it is enough.
"In a way, I have around RM500 to spend each month for six months," she said, adding that food takes up most of her expenses.
She admitted that money worries were always at the back of her mind, but they never stopped her from pursuing her studies.
"Education is a necessity. Money can be earned, as long as you put in the effort — and I am prepared to do that."
Recalling her foundation year, Ainol said she once lived on just RM2 a day, surviving on egg tofu soup.
"It was quite insane. I ate egg tofu almost every day. They sell it for RM0.50 a piece.
"My drinks were just mineral water from the water machine, which cost 10 sen.
"But somehow, it was just enough. At that time, I wasn't even working part-time," she said, adding that she is grateful for how things turned out.
Image for illustration purposes only
Image via AI Generation/GeminiTo get through her degree, Ainol took on various jobs, including roles as a runner for a runner and agent for a rental car company, an F&B crew member, a promoter, a boutique assistant, a make-up store promoter, a gift shop assistant, and a chauffeur.
Most of these jobs came through friends or from her own initiative to ask around.
"The important thing is not to be shy to ask," she said.
Ainol took on all sorts of odd jobs to support herself through university.
Image via Ainol Mardhiah Mohd Jamani (Provided to SAYS)Ainol admitted that managing her time was not easy, but she remains committed to ensuring her work does not affect her studies.
"I make sure to start my assignments one or two weeks before the deadline so I have enough time, and I try to find jobs with flexible hours.
"I once asked for three hours off from work to sit for an exam.
"My boss didn't mind as long as there was a valid reason," she said, adding that a supportive workplace helps maintain mental well-being while juggling study and work.
Beyond time constraints, Ainol said working often created distance between her and her friends.
"It can be a lonely journey. My friends understand, but sometimes I still feel excluded because I can't hang out with them after class," she said.
Still, she believes the experience has helped her develop skills that will benefit her in future employment.
Most universities offer distance learning programmes for degrees, diplomas and certificates, allowing students to work while studying.
However, the range of courses available through this mode remains limited.
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia's (UKM) Institute for Inclusive Development and Advancement of Malaysia deputy director Dr Anuar Ahmad previously said the Malaysian education system should introduce greater flexibility, including providing opportunities for part-time employment.
Dr Anuar said there should be more learning modes that provide students with room to work and study simultaneously.
Image via NSTPHe said the country's education system should move away from the traditional framework that requires students to complete years of study before entering the workforce.
"We cannot rely on a single track, finish school, then enter university, and only then start working.
"We need to promote alternative tracks, such as allowing students to work first before continuing their studies, or to study while working," he said, adding that there should be learning modes that provide students with room to work and study simultaneously.
