Ask questions and try everything – Boyuan’s guide to thriving at Massey

As a nature lover, keen hiker and fisher, Boyuan had set his heart on studying agriculture at Massey during a holiday in New Zealand when he was 16.

“We flew over the South Island and I saw all the paddocks and how clean, tidy and structured it all was. I saw the irrigators and tractors and machinery, and I was deeply attracted to the agriculture.”

Two years later, in his first year at Massey Boyuan threw himself into hostel and university life joining Massey’s Hunting and Fishing, Alpine, Young Farmers and Rugby clubs.

“I’m naturally shy but everyone was very kind and helped me to improve my English.”

When he wasn’t studying, he’d join university friends out in the bush on tramping and hunting trips. As well as travelling almost the entire North Island he’s learned how to spearfish and hunt for paua. He developed a passion for rugby which he began as a gutsy 60kg winger in his first season and has now built up to 80kg in preparation for the 2026 season.

At the end of his second year Boyuan spent a summer working in pest management teams on nature reserves around Auckland. One of his workmates was an accomplished Māori carver and began teaching Boyuan some of his skills and knowledge.

“Before I came to New Zealand I fell in love the Māori culture and I just wanted to learn more and more. When I came back to Massey I decided to set up a small carving workshop in my room.”

Boyuan’s English improved so much that in his third and final year of his Bachelor of Agricultural Science he was a Residential Assistant (RA) supporting first year students in Tōtara Hall on the Manawatū campus.

Meanwhile, his willingness to step up and ask questions helped him gain crucial work experience on New Zealand farms.

Once Boyuan finishes this summer working on the 450 cow dairy farm in Levin, he will begin a Masters of Agriculture focused on pasture and livestock. His ultimate career goal is to run and own a deer farm in Southland, exporting deer velvet to China.

“There is a huge market in China for deer velvet. I think I can link all the connections between my country and New Zealand to make maximum profit.”

Boyuan has three simple pieces of advice for international students about to start studying at Massey:

“Don’t be afraid to ask questions - ask your lecturers, your classmates and your mates. Be brave and join every activity. Follow your passion and choose the degree you love.”