By Byanka Olivarez Gomez

Feeling homesick in college is normal, especially when you’re away from family and familiar traditions. The transition to a new environment, with its new routines and expectations, can leave you missing the comforts of home. Homesickness is temporary, and there are many ways to cope with it healthily. Here are some tips on how to manage the feelings of homesickness: 

• Stay in Touch
  • One of the best ways to ease homesickness is by staying connected to your family and friends. Regular calls, texts, and video calls with family and friends can help you feel connected and supported. You don’t have to wait for holidays and special occasions to reach out. Make it a habit to check in and share your experiences.
• Bring Home With You
  • Surround yourself with reminders of home. Decorate your dorm with family photos, learn how to cook some of your favorite foods from back home, and fill your space with small reminders of your culture. These small touches will provide comfort and help create a space that feels like home, even when you are far away. 
• Join a Student Group
  1. One of the most effective ways to feel less homesick is by getting involved in student organizations that celebrate your cultural background or your interests. Joining a group can create a strong community and help you feel less isolated. Being around others who share your background can help ease homesickness. 
• Embrace New Experiences
  • While it is important to stay connected to your roots, it is equally important to embrace the new experiences that college has to offer. College is a chance to grow and find yourself. Explore your new environment, try new things, and make new memories while honoring where you came from. Take part in events and activities that spark your interest and be open to meeting people from different backgrounds. Embrace the diversity that college has to offer. 
• Take Care of Yourself
  • It’s okay to miss home, but it is also important to take care of your mental health and well-being. Homesickness can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation, and it is essential to practice self-care and do things that make you feel okay. Make sure you are getting enough sleep, eating well, and maintaining good hygiene. Additionally, practice mental health techniques such as mindfulness and journaling to help you relax. If your feelings of homesickness become too overwhelming, it is okay to seek help from a counselor who can guide you through the emotional challenges of adjusting to college life.