If you’re anything like me, being 362 miles away from home — which translates roughly into 6 hours and 32 minutes — can be pretty daunting. Homesickness is lurking right around the corner, and has been for the past week or so. But everyone feels homesick at one point or anything, so here are five helpful tips to help you beat those blues, and make Hobart and William Smith your new home!
1. Branch Out. When you’re a first-year, everyone wants to be your friend. Trust me. College is nothing like high school — people are here to meet people of all walks of life, and most importantly, make new friends. So get to know the people who live on the same floor as you, or who are in your Democracy and Public Policy class. There are bound to be a plethora of people at HWS who will peak your interest, and want to be your friend, too!
2. Focus On Things You Like. When you’re homesick, it’s hard to not just spend all day moping around in your room. However, what you should do instead is start putting more of your time and energy into things that excite you! Like to sing? Audition for Perfect Third! Want to get involved in the community? Join Days of Service! HWS offers so many ways to explore your own passions and interests in a helpful and supportive community. Find things that get you jazzed up about being at HWS, and once you realize how much you enjoy all the wonderful things you’re doing here, you’ll realize this campus will become home.
3. Call Family. Just do it. It’s reassuring to know that your family is there to support you in the biggest adventure of your life. I call my mom all the time and talk to her about everything — boys, school, work, friends, you name it. Although I’m nearly 400 miles away from home, I feel more relaxed and at ease talking to my family. When you’re homesick, there’s nothing like calling your mom or dad and having them tell you that when you see them in 8 weeks, they will have a home cooked meal waiting for you! Trust me.
4. Decorate Your Dorm Room. Honestly, when they’re not decorated, the walls of dorm rooms in JPR and on the Hill can look a little monotonous — even prison like. That’s why you should make them your own! Put up pictures of you and your besties from back home, your dog, and your family. Decorate the walls with cute posters and string lights, whatever makes you feel most comforted and at home. A little decoration goes a loooooong way.
5. Relax. Breathe in. Breathe out. College is stressful. You’re away from home for the first time in your life, making your own decisions as an adult. It’s nerve-wracking, it’s anxiety-inducing….but amazing. You are here for a reason: you are smart, capable, and undoubtedly independent. Although sometimes your homesickness might get the best of you, just know you are on the greatest adventure of your life thus far. You will meet so many amazing people and do such incredible things. So just relax. Welcome home.