Whether you're a freshman or a senior, studying
abroad or going to college in your hometown - it's
natural to have a period of adjustment when you
leave home. Experiencing new things and meeting
different people can be exciting and stressful at
the same time. Sometimes, it can make you
feel a deep desire to return to the people and situations
you know best.
The good news is that homesickness goes away eventually.
As you gradually get used to your new surroundings,
you'll grow more comfortable. You'll also
gain a sense of confidence and independence by knowing
that you can learn to adjust.
Here are some tips to help ease
your transition:
Accept
that things will be different, but different
isn't bad or wrong. Part of maturing is learning
to be flexible in different situations, so this
is all part of the process of preparing you for
a fantastic future.
Bring
a piece of home. Pack special items
that remind you of home and give you comfort like
your pillow, stuffed animals, pictures, posters,
music, and specialty food items.
Focus
on what you're gaining. Instead
of thinking about everything you're missing, focus
on what you're gaining. Think about all the
new experiences you can share with friends and family
when you return.
Know
that you're not alone. Everyone
who is new is in the same boat, so find a buddy
to go exploring. Walk around and learn the
campus and city. The more familiar you become
with your new surroundings, the more your feelings
of homesickness will fade.
Keep
in touch. You're never more than
a call or click away from friends and family.
Make an effort to explore and learn new things about
your environment so you can share your experiences
with them.
Get
involved. Join a club, study group,
or find a part-time job that will help get you involved
with other people. Knowing that you will
see the same faces and interact on a regular schedule
helps a lot.
Plan
a visit. Invite friends and family
to visit you and act as their tour guide.
It also helps to schedule a trip back home, but
avoid going home every weekend. You'll gain
more confidence by sticking it out and finding new
things to do.
Talk
about your feelings. Homesickness
is natural. It doesn't mean you are weak,
only that you have experienced love and security
in your home life - and that's a good thing!
If you find you are having trouble coping, talk
to a friend, roommate, RA, or a campus counselor.
It's important to acknowledge
your feelings rather than keep them inside.
You are definitely not the first student to experience
homesickness, and by sharing what you're going through
with others, you'll find even more ways to start
to adjust.
To learn more about campus mental
health visit www.campusblues.com.
More
College Survival Tips
Real
World Tips
