For my first ever article almost a year ago, I wrote about how homesickness was something that I was battling hard during my first semester of college. I wanted to make sure that others knew that they were not alone and that it was perfectly normal to be homesick. You can find that article here.
As I ask residents in my hall how they are doing, I can tell that most are dealing with homesickness and the many transitions that moving to college presents. But I want to remind everyone in college that missing home will happen once in awhile during your entire college experience. That's just how it is. A year later, I am not missing home every second like I was last year. I feel content in knowing that this is where I am meant to be. But that doesn't mean that it is easy having two homes, because it's something I know I'll struggle with throughout all of college. All of this is normal and a part of change.
if you are struggling with homesickness, I want you to make a list of everything you miss about your hometown. Think about the places there that make your heart full, and the faces that you miss most. I promise that letting yourself think about home when you are missing it really does help. Now imagine when you are going home to these people and places next (perhaps Thanksgiving break). You are somewhere new, but you will be able to visit home soon. And sometimes having a countdown for when you go back home will help you get through the hard days, I know it helped me.
Meet new people and get involved. That is my biggest piece of advice for homesickness. You are not alone with how you are feeling, and I guarantee that those around you also need someone to talk to about what they are going through, just like you. Most of your high school friends aren't going to be there in a year, and that's just the way it is. But college is partly about meeting brand new, life-long friends. So let yourself move on from the life you used to have, and create something beautiful on this blank canvas.
The first couple months of college are the toughest. I promise that it will get easier, and I promise that people care. I for one, would love to talk with you about what you are going through. And I know I am not the only one who has had experience of missing home while being away for months at a time. Please do not shelter yourself or not get involved; that will hurt more. Try. Please try before thinking that you aren't meant to be here. You are. You just have to explore and find your path through this journey of college. Keep holding on and let yourself miss home once in a while. Your feelings are wonderful, important, and normal.