'It’s very lonely’: International student opens up about studying in NZ | nzherald.co.nz

'It's very lonely' - Loyd Doron's dream was to start his career in New Zealand but the journey so far has been far from a fairytale.

[AB-gblb]

I still think that we have diversity challenges here in New Zealand, outwardly, we are a friendly nation to the world, however, the real experience on the ground is very much like this young lad. He comes across as warm, bright, intelligent, caring, dignified and beautifully spoken, what more could you want in a friend?

I think when Kiwis think people aren’t staying around for long they don’t want to invest in the friendship, but that’s not really justified. I have wonderful friends all over the world and just because I don’t see them doesn’t make them not part of my life.

If you are reading this, know that plenty of people experience what you’re going through all over the world, it’s commonly called being homesick, it’s just made more challenging when you enter a new culture as opposed to moving to a different city in your own country. Keep strong and keep going, smooth sea doesn’t make a good sailor !

[DZAZTR]

Got here 3 years ago, finally going back home for a vacation. I feel for this guy as I know how hard it can be. Especially for some people who are not so comfortable meeting and making bonds with new people. I am a carpe diem sort of guy and I made friends quickly and enjoyed a-lot, but in-spite of being so social I know it can get really isolated and dark sometimes.

[estherrogers]

I think for all immersion experiences it feels the same. I'm here in Bolivia, and it was extremely lonely until I finally got some grip on the language.

[pannu]

I spent 5 years in NZ and in the end, I become suicidal and depressed. Left in 2018 and still recovering.

[tiffanysytartist]

Keep going dude ☺️ you're doing an awesome job

[uncletiggermclaren]

It is NOT racism though mate.
I am a Kiwi, "traditional" tiny part Maori, mostly "white" kind of Kiwi, I have a good job, and all the rest, I have/am everything that YOU think keeps people from being friendly to you.
And DO I have any friends? Have I made any even close acquaintances since I came back from overseas 20 years ago ?
NOPE. Kiwis just don't DO the "making friends" thing after we leave high school.

[loryl]

Homesick it's real. Accept what you feel then go out and have activities with others. Meet new people. You will be fine. You will be stronger. Life is testing you my dear. Being successful is a very lonely road. We are being molded to a new version of ourselves. It's not easy. If its easy every body will do it. Only few surpass. I also have the same feeling when I went abroad. But knowing I have a family counting on me...that gives me strength to persevere ahead. God bless you and never ever give up due to temporary problems in life. This is life. Nobody is free from it.

[eyewishwalrus]

the same for all nz really, either you keep to yourself or you find some friends, it can be lonely here

[edgymoon]

It is very hard for immigrants like me who have only been living here for 4 years and I have tried every possible thing and im all out of options, making friends is impossible for people like me

[wandering_rose]

The whole world is lonely. Many kiwis living in their own country feel lonely. Every person studying abroad, every kid in boarding school, etc etc There is a huge Philipino population here in NZ, spend more time reaching out and less time on the phone to home or on the internet making depressing videos perhaps? Just a suggestion. 🙂

[augustinekopa]

Must be so hard. I pray 🙏 that you get support love 💕 around you

[rexx]

Yeah i feel the same, nz people are pretty polite but as friendly.

[contemplatinggod]

This is real, and we are not talking about it enough. The West ia so lonely.

[swoopy]

Clear your emotions mah bro and stay focused... call home to ease your mind..

[WhetuMotutere-nw]

Your parent's worked hard to get you hea safty is important to your family and to our economy reputation

[salamiond]

locals suffering a housing crisis and you complain about not having friends? seriously

[chilledlaminton]

LOL, how do people even record themselves crying? So cringe.

[CrudupZopf-nsdr]

Fleed your 3rd country for a better & expect us to embrace you what can you offer NZders in your country, Nothing

[Kinghihiv]

I think thats a skilll guys im chill dont put me in the news or

[sukanphutchaiyon]

You’re man not lady boy, You should be strong man!!