Life rarely adheres to a predetermined script, a lesson that Jami, a 28-year-old Malaysian graduate from one of the world's top universities, has learned firsthand. Despite the promise of a successful career in the corporate world after graduating from Peking University in Beijing, Jami opted for a radically different path.

Instead of pursuing a high-powered career in Beijing's sleek office towers, Jami embarked on a working holiday adventure in New Zealand and Australia, far removed from her initial plans.

Reflecting on her decision, Jami shares, "Initially, I envisioned a fast-paced life in Beijing. But as I matured, my aspirations evolved. I sought something different, something that felt more like living rather than just surviving."

Her journey began serendipitously in 2018 during a family trip to New Zealand, where she encountered three Hong Kongers on a working holiday. Their tales of transient lifestyles and flexible work ignited a desire for change within Jami.

In March 2022, amid the easing of pandemic restrictions, Jami obtained her visa. "I vividly remember registering with immigration on March 16, feeling a mix of nervousness and excitement," she recalls.

The trials of physical labor Upon her arrival in New Zealand, Jami wasted no time and purchased a second-hand car—a crucial investment enabling her to commute 40 kilometers from her residence to a vegetable packing facility.

Starting work at 5 a.m., she would navigate the dark, cold mornings to begin her shift.

Handling wet vegetables in temperatures barely above freezing was a shock to my system.

"The physical discomfort was exacerbated by chilblains, causing painful prickling in my fingers—a harsh introduction to my first working holiday job.

"My days were long, working from 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., but I found the experience both demanding and fulfilling," she shared.

Financially, the pay initially seemed promising at NZ$21.20 (approximately RM60) per hour. However, Jami revealed that a significant portion of her earnings, at least 2 hours' worth, went toward taxes.

Finding satisfaction in factory cleaning Jami's next venture led her to a food factory, where she participated in transforming fresh apples into dried ones.

Her days were divided between morning and afternoon shifts, each presenting its own set of challenges.

During mornings, Jami handled trays of apple rings, each weighing between 5 to 7 kilograms. Each cycle required moving 96 trays to fill two racks for the drying process.

In the afternoons, Jami found solace in her favorite aspect of the job: factory cleaning.

Using high-pressure hoses, she washed away the day's accumulation of apple scraps and debris from the machines.

"The hose was heavy, and after 12 hours a week, my hands ached so much that even clenching my fists became difficult.

"Cleaning the machinery four times a week for a total of twelve hours was strenuous, yet the higher wage of NZ$26 (approximately RM74) per hour made it feel worthwhile."

Despite the physical demands and soaking wet conditions, Jami derived immense satisfaction from her tasks.

Work hard, play harder During her first year of working holiday in New Zealand, Jami earned a total of NZ$32,000, approximately RM90,000.

Subsequently, she embarked on extensive travels across New Zealand, including glacier hikes and shark cage diving.

Although these trips depleted her savings to NZ$3,000 (approximately RM8,500), Jami considered the expenses worthwhile for the enriching experiences gained.

"From accommodation to adventure sports, everything was more expensive than I anticipated. However, I deemed the expenses worthwhile for the experiences gained.

"Moreover, I traveled across New Zealand four times with the money I earned, delving deeper into life experiences and finding freedom in the simplicity and spontaneity of solo travel."

Jami was also awe-struck by the breathtaking scenery, which she described as capable of bringing tears to her eyes.

Nevertheless, Jami's solo travels were not without challenges. From punctured tires to unforeseen obstacles, she encountered various situations that showcased the beauty of human kindness, with locals quick to offer assistance.

What lies ahead? Given the strenuous nature of her work, many wonder about Jami's future. She sees it as an investment, despite the laborious nature of her job.

"Investing in my spiritual wealth has shown me the value of this lifestyle. Standing at each post, you learn the rationale behind decisions, such as why you must pack one item before another or how a boss selects suppliers.

"Even as a small cog in the machine, these experiences prepare you for greater responsibilities in the future."

She added that the job taught her to manage minor details, which she considers essential for any high-ranking position she may hold in the future.

Regarding her solo travels, Jami learned a valuable lesson: never over-plan and adapt to the present situation to avoid anxiety.

"We Malaysians are conditioned to study hard and pursue higher earnings. Yet, in a job that doesn't demand much intellectual effort, I sometimes question my path.

"I used to feel anxious when things were too relaxed here. But looking back, the long hours and even preparing meals for the next day were far from relaxing. There's no need to worry too much."

She also dismissed the notion that graduating from prestigious universities guarantees success in large corporations or that university life represents the pinnacle of one's existence.

"I believe every moment can be a highlight. A university title is just that—a title. It doesn't define all that I am or all that I can achieve."

Is the working holiday as good as it seems?

When asked this question, Jami responded bluntly, "It's boring."

"Last year, I worked with onions, which I found particularly dull. Imagine staring at onions for ten hours straight. It was tedious.

"Even now, working with citrus fruits in Australia after more than a year in New Zealand, the routine feels monotonous. Whether it's oranges or lemons, seeing the same fruits shift from 10kg to 15kg boxes becomes tiresome."

Jami cautioned against romanticizing the idea of a working holiday solely for its perceived fun.

"Don't embark on a working holiday unless you understand the sacrifices and challenges ahead and are still eager to pursue this lifestyle. If so, then perhaps it's meant for you. Everyone is different—don't blindly chase after it."