The only answer I have repeated more than teaching people how to correctly pronounce my name (which you are still mispronouncing but I'll say yes you got it) is about where I was before I came to Emory.

"Where are you from?"

"Chicago."

"How far is that?"

"700 miles. More or less."

It never registered how far I was away from home until I thought about wanting to go home. Driving alone isn't a possibility and plane tickets aren't cheap.

Then Eid popped up after I had finally settled in.

I wanted to go home. I wanted my mom's desserts. I wanted my great-grandmother's mouth-watering beef. I wanted to see my family.

Luckily, I made a few arrangements. I had no classes on Friday so I had an friend pick me up on Thursday night. I spent the night at her house where we talked, did mehndi/henna, and read random books to each other. The next morning we got ready and attended Eid Prayer. I Facetimed my family to wish them well. Afterwards, my friend and I traveled from house to house all day, nibbling on the goodies offered at each place. I came home exhausted, but full of food and good cheer.

I had a fun for my first Eid away from home and you can too!

1. Locate the Nearest Eid Prayer

This was easier for me since I had family friends who lived five minutes from a mosque. Check with your university's MSA to see if they are carpooling to the prayer or if there will be a prayer on campus. Attending Eid Prayer allows you to feel the festive spirit and meet other Muslims. You are less likely to feel lonely and homesick if you are celebrating with others.

2. Organize an Eid Party

This doesn't have to be anything huge. Talk to a few friends and arrange to get together for dinner or host a hangout in your dorm. Put mehndi/henna on each other and chat.

3. Take the Day Off

This isn't always possible with important classes or meeting, but if you are able to give yourself a day to chill with friends or have the day to yourself, it will already feel like a holiday. You will feel less bombarded with responsibility and more in the mood to celebrate.

4. Call Home

This one seems obvious. However, with texting and all the nifty apps on our phones we forget what the phone's initial purpose was once upon a time. Call home or Facetime. Hearing your family's and friend's voices will make you feel closer to them.

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If anything, spend Eid with those who make you happy and feel loved. Make where you live your home away from home. After all, friends are the family you get to choose.