Ep 02 - The Reality of Starting Fresh in NZ – Student & Career Journey | Podcast with Jay Arora

In this 2nd podcast, Sajan sits down with Jay Arora, who moved from India to New Zealand in 2015. Jay shares his complete journey — from student struggles and survival jobs to achieving permanent residency and building a career in real estate.

What you will hear in this episode:

Jay’s early challenges: Canada rejection, IELTS struggles & course switching.

First months in New Zealand: financial realities, flatmates & culture shock.

Student jobs: working in a takeaway, factory jobs & surviving on limited hours.

Struggles as a vegetarian student & managing food expenses.

Path to PR and settlement in New Zealand.

Transition into real estate and life in Christchurch.

Real advice for Indian students planning to come to NZ today.

👉 This episode is packed with practical insights, honest experiences, and guidance for anyone planning to study, work, or settle in New Zealand.

🔔 Subscribe for more podcasts on student life, migration, and careers abroad.

Guest - Jay Arora
Host - Sajan Sachdeva

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00:00 – Introduction & Welcome
00:20 – Jay’s arrival in New Zealand (2015) & background
02:05 – Canada rejection, IELTS challenges & choosing NZ
04:50 – Switching courses: Business → Electronics
06:20 – Importance of self-realization & making your own decisions
07:22 – First months in NZ: excitement vs reality, financial struggles
09:00 – Making first $3,000 & managing expenses
10:02 – First job at an Indian takeaway in Auckland
12:00 – Student life: 20-hour work rule & Hobson St college days
13:43 – Recruitment companies & landing a job at Sistema
16:46 – Working at Sistema Plastics (factory experience)
17:19 – Food struggles: vegetarian life & free meals from work
19:00 – Flat mates, accommodation & early life in Auckland
21:00 – Journey towards PR & career decisions
23:30 – Family settling in Christchurch & lifestyle changes
26:00 – Moving into the real estate industry
29:30 – Challenges and growth in the NZ real estate market
32:00 – Advice for Indian students about course and career planning
35:00 – Mistakes students make: ROI, wrong subjects, wrong guidance
37:00 – Jay’s key message for future migrants & students
39:00 – Closing thoughts & podcast wrap-up
39:46 – End

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Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations or sponsors.

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice (financial, medical, legal, etc.). Always seek the advice of qualified professionals regarding any personal matters discussed.

All content shared is based on personal experiences and should not be generalized. Listener/viewer discretion is advised.

Copyright Notice: All audio/video content is the property of this channel and may not be reused without permission.

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