After completing Class 12 in 2023 and clearing IELTS on the first attempt, Priyal Sharma from Delhi believed he was enrolling in a university in Auckland. Upon arrival in New Zealand, he discovered it was a private satellite college located far from the main campus — the result of blindly trusting an education consultant. With a financial commitment of nearly ₹22 lakh and high living costs, the pressure was intense. Homesickness hit hard. A part-time job at a pizza shop helped him adapt, build confidence, and understand local culture. His journey highlights practical education abroad, financial realities, and the importance of independent research before studying overseas.