By Nicole Nielsen

You are finally on your own, living the life of freedom. You have no curfew, you can eat what you want for dinner, and it is up to you whether or not you clean your room.  Is something still missing? Maybe you are feeling homesick. Every year, the majority of all freshmen college students feel a longing for their old life. Here are a few ways to help you when you’re feeling down.

Bring a little bit of home with you-When you’re setting up your dorm, try to create a “home away from home” environment.  Decorate your walls with posters and pictures from your old room and other items that remind you of special times you’ve experienced.  Make a scrapbook with pictures of friends, family and favorite memories.  This scrapbook can be a memoir for you to glance at each time you are feeling lonely.                                     

Keep busy- When you have more things to do, there won’t be much time for homesickness. Join in on freshman activities provided at your school, and attend some of the college events, such as football games, pep rallies and homecoming. The student center is also a great place to hang out. Walk around and learn the campus and city. The more familiar you become with your new surroundings, the more your feelings of homesickness will fade. Also, learn to focus on what you are gaining by being away from home, not what you are missing. There are many positives about going away from home, and concentrating on these will make the transition easier.  The more fun you are having, the less you will be missing home.  Just remember that these adjustments take time.

Stay in touch- Call or write the people you miss most.  Let them know how you are doing, and tell them how much you miss them.  Let them know you are having fun and about your new life. Plan a few visits over the semester. Seeing loved ones is very important. E-mail family and friends, and send photos to each other.  This will keep you updated on things going on back home.                                             

                  Talk to someone around you- Tell a roommate or a new friend how you are feeling. Talking about your homesickness will help you feel better.  They may have already dealt with a similar issue, or may even be experiencing it as well. Support will always be available. If you do not feel comfortable talking to your roommate, talk to a counselor. You can also keep a journal. In it, express your daily feelings and your new experiences.  Even though you may be having a hard time adjusting, just remember to keep positive.

[Go Back]