So, you’ve just moved into your college dorm. For the first time, your life is a blank canvas, just waiting to be filled with new possibilities. Your mom will regale you with stories of “the best years of her life,” and your brother will help you hang posters above your Twin XL bed. Then, you blink, and it’s time to say goodbye. Goodbye to the people you love most in the world.
Okay, maybe my narrative is slightly dramatic. I’m literally going to see them in October. But still, coming from a close-knit family, starting over in a new state was incredibly daunting for me. From one homesick student to another, here’s my advice on making the best of it in a new place!
home away from home
Just because you’re far away, it does not mean that college has to feel like a foreign environment. I strongly recommend having “comfort items” or familiar pastimes that make you feel closer to home. For me, this resembles chamomile tea from my beloved Original Pancake House mug, a starfish; gifted to me by my favorite teacher, Daisy Jones and the Six, my coziest sweater, and a framed picture of my best friends. It looks different for everyone.
My roommate, for instance, swears she needs her cherry-flavored Walmart water to feel at home. You’d be surprised how well this works. Listen to your favorite album and go for a walk! The idea is to find whatever makes you feel grounded and hold onto it.
Talk it out
While you don’t want to overdo it, it’s important to connect with friends and family back home. For me, it’s been a huge comfort to regularly FaceTime, call, and text. It gives me a chance to open up about how I’m feeling about the transition. Plus, chances are, your loved ones will be thrilled to hear from you.
For example, my brother recently spent a semester abroad in Africa. Our weekly phone calls made the distance feel much smaller.
Another idea is writing pen pal letters to a friend. You’ll always have something to look forward to in your mailbox and a reminder of their support.
Embracing campus life
Before move-in, you might be experiencing more anxiety than excitement. Instead of overthinking all the potential cons, try making a list of what you’re looking forward to. It may seem silly, but making a positive list is like pretending to be confident. Sometimes, you just have to fake it until you make it.
When you arrive, keep your list in mind and start checking the boxes. Fortunately, living on a large campus means there’s a little bit of everything. You’ll be able to explore your wide array of interests. For me, joining HerCampus allows me to express my passion for writing.
Aside from school, try to go out and explore. In my first month, I’ve been to a vintage flea market, Y2K dance party, and a cute ice cream shop. These are all new, exciting things. In college, you don’t have to be the person you were in high school. It’s a chance to make new friends, join clubs, dress how you’ve always wanted to, and find yourself as an adult.
Let’s Be honest
College is going to be hard. It’s an adjustment whether your school is in your hometown or across the globe. Regardless, appreciating the little things at school just might make you feel better. Whether it’s your stuffed bunny, calling a friend, or playing an intramural sport, there are ways to rise above your homesickness. No matter where you are, this new adventure is full of opportunities for growth.