For Piula Lokotui, a student from Tonga, arriving at KDI School felt like stepping into a vibrant, diverse environment that instantly reminded her of a familiar expression from home: a “fruit salad”. "The phrase ‘fruit salad’ is something we often use back home to describe a group made up of people from different backgrounds, whether in terms of gender, nationality, religion, or personality," she explains. Piula, being the only student from Tonga, was naturally drawn into various groups, ultimately finding her own vibrant "KDIS fruit salad family" within Building 103 of the dormitory. This close-knit circle is a rich mixture of cultures and personalities, with friends from Fiji, Cambodia, Pakistan, Malawi, the Philippines, Indonesia, Japan, and Korea. What holds them all together, Piula says, is a “beautiful bond” that transcends their different backgrounds. "Each person adds a unique 'flavor' to the group, like ingredients in a fruit salad," she adds, "and together, those differences blend into a colorful, supportive, and unforgettable friendship".

While the group's friendships blossomed in many places, the journey was also shaped by community and support found outside of the dorms. Piula is deeply grateful to Sejong Presbyterian Church, Professor Kim, and "Mama" for their unwavering love. They ensured students were well-fed both physically and spiritually every weekend, even organizing free trips to explore Korea. "For many of us Christians, their care felt like a reminder of home, and I’ll always cherish that kind of emotional and spiritual support," Piula shares. Another key ingredient in her journey was her Korean Language Class (KLC) in the Fall 2024 semester. During a time when everyone was still finding their footing, the friendships built in that class helped Piula feel like she belonged at KDI School.

However, the undeniable heart of their family is the Building 103 kitchen, a space that became much more than a place to cook. "It was where friendships formed, cultures came together, and where we found a sense of home away from home," Piula says. One of her most cherished memories is a late-night cooking and baking party during Ramadan. This tradition evolved into a daily ritual where the group would gather to prepare meals and break the fast together. Even those not observing Ramadan joined in, turning a "simple act of kindness" into a nightly gathering filled with food, music, and laughter. The bond that formed was so strong that it continued long after Ramadan ended. “That kitchen became our gathering place, our safe space, and the birthplace of countless memories,” Piula reflects.

Naturally, a group this diverse has faced its share of challenges. Planning something as simple as dinner can be tricky, as they are always mindful of their Muslim friends' dietary needs. But through it all, they remain close because of a profound lesson learned: "Real connection doesn’t mean being the same, it means appreciating and embracing the differences". It's about being patient, respectful, and considerate even when opinions clash. As this chapter of their lives draws to a close, they are simply enjoying every moment, knowing that this kind of bond is "rare and special".

For future KDI School students, Piula offers a single piece of advice: "Embrace the diversity". She encourages students to take the time to share their own culture but also be open to learning from others. The friendships here, she says, require tolerance, respect, and a genuine willingness to understand each other. "You’re far from home, but the people you meet will become your new family," she shares. Piula's parting message is a powerful one: "Welcome others with open arms, make time to celebrate small moments, and create memories that you’ll carry with you long after you leave". That, she concludes, is how you build your own "fruit salad family," one unique and beautiful bond at a time.