I came out of my senior year of high school so excited to go to college and be on my own. Not having my parents nag me to do my chores or do stuff in general, sounded heavenly. Being my own self-manager in college meant my rules on my time! It looks picture perfect- no bedtime, you can go out whenever you want.
But freedom is not all I had imagined it would be. Being away from home, I began to envy my friends that have family that live close. I realized how much I longed for my family, and how hard it is to be in a completely different state than they are.
I miss coming home after a stressful day and curling up next to my mom on the couch, and feeling her loving warmth. When you’re home, you take these little details for granted, and you forget to soak up every second of family time. I wish I had my parents here to nag me to do my laundry and chores, then they would actually get done! Everyone gets homesick, no matter how far family is. Here are some tips.
1) Find a local friend.
One of the best feelings I’ve experienced in college is the feeling of being in a real home. After spending so much time in the dorms and on campus, being inside an actual house feels so good! Most people have at least one friend who lives at home, ask them if you can come over for dinner sometime. You’ll get the cozy feeling of being inside an actual home, and sometimes a delicious home-cooked meal is all you need to feel a little less homesick!
2) Keep connected
Staying in contact is a great way to feel a little less homesick, and what better way to stay in contact than talking face to face? My day instantly gets better after a chat over Facetime with my mom. I love seeing my home and my family; the familiarity comforts me in times of stress. It’s much more personal than a simple phone call and seeing your loved ones faces will instantly brighten your day! Send pictures of what you’re up to and ask your family to do the same. Keeping connected will make you feel still a part of each other’s lives, even when you’re away.
3) Bring back things from home
Going along with the idea of familiarity, bring some things back from home to decorate your room. Having things you had in your room at home connects your different rooms and makes things feel more like home. Hang a photo of your family, your pets, or make a collage of pictures of family and friends and put it on a poster. It’s a cute way to decorate and a perfect way to bring a little slice of home with you!
As fun as college is, it’s hard being away from your family. In times of homesickness, I try to remember how good it will feel once I am home, and have my dogs running to the door to greet me. Perseverance pays off, and being away from home shows you how important family truly is. Make sure to try these tips next time you’re feeling a little homesick, and I can reassure you you’ll feel better!