1. Create a Routine
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you don’t have a consistent schedule. High School was all about a routine; you woke up, went to school, had lunch with your friends, did after school sports or clubs and then went home. College is the complete opposite of that. But that doesn’t mean you can’t find a similar routine. Make a schedule around your classes that helps you feel comfortable and in control. Join a study group that meets regularly, designate an evening as laundry night or go off campus to eat every Thursday. Getting yourself into a routine will help you settle in and feel focused.
2. Getting Out of the Dorm
Homesickness kicks in when you’re sitting on your dorm bed alone or aimlessly scrolling on social media to see what your friends from home are doing. Go to the campus coffee shop to do homework or do your reading outside while it’s still nice out. Getting out and being around other people will be less lonely. Doing work outside of your room can also make you more productive and focused.
3. Staying Fit & Healthy
While this does not completely relate to homesickness, being consistently active and eating well will help you feel better and more confident. Utilize the gym and eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Scope out where the healthy options are on campus. You don’t have to make the healthy choice every time but at least go there for lunch a few times a week. Make sure you go to bed around the same time each night and get enough sleep!
4. Keep Busy
Join a club that you loved in High School. College has an abundance of options to choose from. Joining clubs is an easy way to make friends and find people who share similar interests as you. Go to football games, welcome back bonfires and programs that your residental hall offers. Getting involved on campus makes you feel more at home and increases school pride!
5. Create Set Times to Talk to Friends & Family
With a busy schedule, it’s hard to update loved ones on your life in college. Setting a specific day or time to talk to friends and family allows for more time to catch up. Sunday might be the best day as that’s most likely where you have less going on. You can recap your week to your parents and catch up on what’s going on at your friend’s college.