Homesickness is common during the fall semester for new and returning students alike. No longer seeing your family members every day and needing to be independent can be a difficult adjustment. Nonetheless, there are things you can do to overcome homesickness.
- Know That Homesickness Is Normal
The majority of students do experience some homesickness, especially during the fall semester of their first year of college. This can be due to many reasons, including the stress of needing to create a new routine, difficulty adapting to a new location (and possibly a new culture), or simply missing family, friends, pets, and familiar surroundings. Just realizing these feelings are normal can bring some relief. - Stay Busy
You’ll forget about your homesickness (at least for a while) if you stay busy. When you have nothing to do, avoid wasting time in your apartment — find activities on campus, hit the gym, or explore your college town. In addition to joining campus clubs, look for activities and volunteering opportunities in your wider community. The important thing is to bring what you miss about home to your life at college. - Talk to Friends and Family Often
It’s easier than ever to stay in contact with family and friends. As well as sending texts and interacting over social media, schedule regular phone calls or video chats at times you know you won’t be busy. When you start college, you may want to call home every day. Later, you could drop the frequency of your calls home to about once a week. - Make New Friends
You’re surrounded by countless people who have the potential to become your new friends at college. Even if this is not your first year, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet people and continue expanding your social circle. Strike up a conversation with a classmate, chat with a new roommate, and find people who share your interests at extracurriculars. - Take Your Time
Accept that overcoming homesickness is not something you can rush — it typically takes at least a few weeks and may even last for the entire fall semester to some extent. You may not feel homesick all the time. For instance, something may trigger these feelings, such as if you’re suddenly reminded of home. It can be helpful to have a fixed date for when you’ll return home again, whether for the winter break or for just a weekend. - Ask for Support
Never feel like you need to struggle with homesickness alone. Open up to other students — they are likely experiencing the same. If you don’t know many people yet, talk to your roommates. Older students you meet at extracurriculars are also great sources of advice. However, if your homesickness begins to interfere with your studies or social life, you should seek professional support. Find out what services your college offers, such as counseling.
You’ll settle into life at college more easily if you feel at home in your student housing. Peterborough has off-campus student apartments at Severn Court. You’ll have your own room in a six-bedroom unit — you have the choice of living in a gender-inclusive suite or traditional housing. All the bedrooms have individual locks and thermostats to ensure you’re as comfortable as possible. Plus, you’ll be just across the street from Fleming College. Apply for your spot now.
