Homesick at College

When you are finally done with the excitement of settling into the dorms first semester at college, and the new roommate suddenly becomes less interesting and your new city seems unforgiving, it is inevitable that you may feel a little homesick. I know we like to pretend we are too cool for these lonely moments, but just be sure to avoid ignoring the signs. The most important thing to remember is that you’re not alone. Here are some tips to dealing with being homesick. There is a cure, I promise!

Talk to your friends from back home about it- they probably are in the same boat: Take some time out of your day to call those you left behind and tell them how much you miss them. I guarantee they feel the same. No, this is not a lame thing to do as it will be a reminder that regardless of the fact that you are not at home, your friends are always with you in some way. Just communicate and keep the bridge open with all those from your hometown who know you best. Myspace them, send them an email, text, or better yet, just call.

Get off campus and become proactive in your new community: The best thing I did first semester of freshmen year was tutor off campus. I decided to join a team of tutors and help out the local middle school near my college. This gave me a sense of direction and helped fill my void with a feeling of community. Becoming part of my local neighborhood and filling up alone time was a great way to deal with feeling homesick. Go to your college information center and ask about what you can do to become proactive.

Gather up people in your dorm for a fun dinner: I guarantee there are people in your dorm that you just don’t know are amazing yet. Ask your neighbor or the RA or any random stranger in the dorm if they want to grab a bite. Open yourself up to new people and new experiences. You will realize that you may have a lot in common with the person living right next to you than you initially thought. Perhaps you can help each other out in moments of need. You never know. I remember asking the girl who lived next to me if she wanted to walk to the nearby store. She ended up being one of my best friend’s and my roommate that very next year. You just don’t know until you ask! 


Become distracted by throwing yourself into schoolwork and the college experience: Cure your homesickness by studying hard, playing hard, and allowing yourself to get swallowed by the college experience. You will be surprised how much better you will feel about being away from home when you produce that “A” paper or rush for that sorority you never thought you would join. Remember: College is supposed to be a place to evolve and strengthen us. Embrace what it has to offer, you will be surprised how good it feels. There are so many nights I wish I could go back and do it over. I would roll around in the experience if I could.