“I’m a long way from home and so all alone, homesick like I never thought I’d be…” Waylon Jennings said it best when it came to being away from home.
I’m an out of state student. Well, technically I’m not “out of state” but I’m certainly a long way from home (12 hour drive). My mom moved back to Oklahoma in spring of 2015 to take care of my grandmother. It was a tough decision, but I decided to stay at UAB. I wouldn’t have to worry about credits transferring or having my degree get off track.
“”Wow! That must be tough!”
I’m not going to lie, it is tough… but I’ve found ways to cope and enjoy myself.
I keep busy.
Extra-curricular activities help so much. Fall of 2015 and fall of 2016, I participated in marching band. I was busy every weekend. So, that helped the time pass. I also participate in one of the jazz combos at UAB. It’s a fun and relaxing class where I don’t have to worry about a whole lot. Most recently, I became the Social Media and Journalism Intern with Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama. As a Lifetime Member of Girl Scouts, it’s a great honor and it’s been tons of fun!
Call often
(Obvious, I know, but sometimes we forget!) My mom and I will talk on the phone pretty regularly throughout the week and text every day. (I’ve even gotten her to FaceTime me!) It helps to be in contact with her and hearing her voice. She also sends me pictures of my rescue pup, Dodger, that helps me get through the week. (Facebook helps keep her up to date on what I’m doing too!)
Get to work!
I’m a work-study at the Alys Stephens Center on campus and I love it. It’s one of the best things that’s happened to me. I work with really wonderful people and I get to have a lot of fun too. Everyone is warm and compassionate. I definitely feel accepted by them.
Make Friends With Your Roomie!
This one is also obvious, but it’s worth repeating. I love my roommate, Nicole. She’s become like a sister to me and we help me each other out a lot. We vent about stress, classes, world events, and sometimes when our schedules match up, we’ll grab food together! Ice cream for dinner happens during most stressful weeks…
Value The Time You Get To Be Home
I make the most out of my trip home and value spending time with my mom, grandmother, and Dodger. My grandmother cooks authentic Japanese and Czech food and I make sure to eat as much as possible while I’m home, because nothing can beat a home cooked meal. I spend time with my mom running errands, going to the movies, and sometimes just enjoying each other’s company. I take every opportunity to play outside with Dodger, since I can’t have him on campus with me.
All in all, I think it’s helped me get my independence. I love and miss my mom, grandmother, and Dodger very much, but I’ve learned to do things on my own, I’ve made friends that are a great support system, and I’ve even gotten out and explored Birmingham a good bit.