Tough choices for Chinese students

Confined to dormitory

In New York, the epicenter of the pandemic in the United States, Chen Ziwen, 24, has remained in his dormitory at New York University for more than two weeks. He has enough food to last for another month.

One of his classmates returned to China recently due to the uncertain situation in New York.

"Many Chinese students chose to return home because they were worried they would not be treated in time if they became infected. The number of patients has put an immense strain on the capacity of hospitals," said Chen, who is due to complete his postgraduate studies in econometrics in New York next month.

"Those who are going to graduate this year stand at the crossroads," he said.

Chen has found a financial job in New York. If he goes home to China, he risks being refused entry when he returns to the US.

Other reasons for his decision include the difficulty of buying an air ticket and the risk of becoming infected on the journey home.

The last time he left the dormitory was to shop for food.

"I was surprised to see that bread and bagels had all sold out. I just took it for granted that they would always be there when I went to the supermarket," he said.

He is now worrying over whether he will be able to buy more food after he has exhausted his supplies.

During the outbreak in China, delivery services have continued to operate, with community workers ensuring people receive food. But Chen said the situation is different in New York, as supermarkets have suspended such services.

When he wore a mask to attend classes in February, a US classmate thought it was part of his culture. But Chen said that many locals now know the importance of wearing a mask and staying at home as the pandemic spreads rapidly.