Moving away from home is exciting, but as you embark on your big uni adventure you may well have feelings of homesickness at some point.
Homesickness is a normal part of the uni experience – though not one that’s talked about as much as all the fun stuff like making new friends and living independently. But if you’re feeling homesick, know that you’re not alone. We’ve put together some tips to help you feel better.
What to do if you’re feeling homesick
Is it normal to be homesick at university?
It might surprise you to learn that yes, feeling homesick at uni is completely normal. When you’re missing home, it’s easy to think you’re the only one – everyone else is busy making new friends, getting on with their studies and loving everything that uni life has to offer. But believe us, you’ll find that most students feel homesick at some point.
After all, uni is a big adjustment. For most students, it’s the first time they’ve lived away from home. Then add in that you’re living in a new city (or maybe even a new country), with a new routine and new friendship groups – it’s a lot of change all at once. Of course, that’s also what makes uni so exciting. But that doesn’t mean you won’t feel homesick from time to time. It might feel difficult, but acknowledging that you feel this way is the first step to feeling better.
How long does homesickness at uni last?
Everyone experiences homesickness differently and at different times. You might experience it during your first semester, as you get used to life in your new city. Or you might find that after going home for the summer, you return to uni and feel a bit flat after spending time back home. It could last a few days or a few weeks, or it could come and go. You might find you feel homesick when you least expect it. But one thing is certain: you are not alone and there are steps you can take to cope.
How to get over homesickness at uni
Here, we take a look at some top tips on how to deal with feeling homesick at uni. Just remember: you’ve got this!
Let yourself feel homesick
It may sound counterintuitive, but actually acknowledging how you feel is super important. It’s totally normal to feel homesick when you first move to uni. Don’t make yourself feel worse by beating yourself up for feeling something that most students have experienced. Give yourself time to validate your emotions, have a little cry and then give your flatmates a shout - does anybody fancy a game night or boxset marathon?
Make your room feel like home
Moving into unfamiliar surroundings is always going to be hard, especially as you settle into life at uni. So why not make it easier for you to adjust by packing some home comforts. Think polaroids of friends, a “good luck at uni” card from a family member or that teddy bear (or what’s left of it) from when you were little – anything that will help turn your empty room into a home away from home!
Schedule regular catch-ups
Whether it’s a late night WhatsApp message, phone call or even a postcard, keeping in touch with your loved ones at home can help you feel that little bit less alone in those first few weeks. Too much communication can make you feel the distance even more however, so scheduling in regular catch-ups can be a great way to find that balance. For example, let your parents know you’ll be calling after uni on a Friday – you’ll have something to look forward to once all of your lectures are over!
Get socialising
It can be overwhelming surrounding yourself with so many new people at uni or in your student accommodation, especially if you’re not an extrovert. Yet, making plans – big or small – will help you gradually adjust to student life and manage feelings of loneliness. You could grab a coffee in between lectures with your coursemates, organise a group study session in the library or sit in and belt out your favourite Taylor songs with your fellow ‘Swifty society’ members. You could even check out what events your accommodation may be hosting. Whatever you do, make the most of these moments – your uni years aren’t forever!
Explore extracurricular activities
Keeping yourself busy can help you avoid fixating on that homesick feeling. For instance, trying out that extracurricular activity that piqued your interest during freshers’ week can help you focus on living in the moment rather than what you’re missing at home. You could even join a student society that helps you connect with some of the things you miss from home, whether that’s your faith, your first language or a chance to share your favourite foods.
Or what about getting a part-time job? This way you can earn some extra cash AND experience a much-needed change of scenery, plus you may find friends for life in your colleagues.
Reach out for help
Remember, feeling homesick is completely normal! That being said, you should never suffer in silence. Whether you speak to your uni tutor who can help signpost you to the appropriate services or call somebody you trust, be sure to reach out if you need help.
Here at Student Roost, our friendly property teams are onsite 24/7. Plus, they’ll be able to point you in the right direction for specific help concerning your mental health and wellbeing. Check out our wellbeing hub for further support. We've got you.
