How to Cope With Freshman Homesickness
You probably miss your dog the most.
by VICTORIA RADIS ★ OCTOBER 24, 2019
Is it normal to feel homesick?
Yes! Homesickness, especially in the first semester of freshman year, is totally normal! You’re away from your family, friends, and home for probably the longest that you’ve ever been. For the first time, you’re really on your own. It can be scary, but you shouldn’t let it hold you back!
Credit: Victoria Radis
Tips & Tricks
I’ve found that the best thing for curing homesickness is making sure that I stay in contact with my friends. It’s so easy to put aside even just 15 minutes walking between classes and makes me feel so much better.
Also, if you’re struggling with being away from home, not feeling like you have a set “group,” or with being in a completely new environment, it can really help to know that your friends are going through the same thing as you!
Credit: Instagram @sarah.deitelzweig
It’s also important to branch out. Try new activities, meet new people. Trying new things will lead you to meet people you may not have otherwise! Don’t be shy, because everyone is likely feeling the same emotions that you are. Trying new things is also a great way to keep busy, which can definitely help with homesickness.
Try to keep busy with people, as well. If you’re really struggling with missing friends even though it’s important to stay in contact with your old friends, know that it’s also vital to make new ones! This doesn’t mean that they have to replace your high school friends, but you’ll feel a lot more homesick just staying in your dorm alone than if you go hang out with new people.
Credit: Sophia Radis
Exercise! We all know that the anticipation of going to the gym is so much worse than the workout. Exercise is a great way to keep busy, and distract yourself from any homesickness you might feel. Also, it’s necessary to stay active in college, and helps with being healthy and lowering stress levels.
Lastly, don’t hesitate to use campus resources! Pet therapy is always a good idea…
Credit: Victoria Radis
Remember: It’s normal to feel homesick, just don’t let it ruin your freshman year experience. There are so many ways to cope with freshman homesickness, you don’t want it to make you miss out!