Homesickness in College Students

The perfect remedy for a homesick college student is to take a break and go home for the weekend. But if home is too far or too expensive to reach, here are a few things you can do to make yourself feel better.

Video Chatting

We all miss our family and friends. Take an hour or two and check in with the people you love. They miss you just as much as you miss them. Video chatting is an easy way to have a face-to-face conversation even if you’re hundreds of miles apart.

Ask for Mom’s Recipes

Cafeteria food might not taste like something your mother would cook. Call her and ask for a care package or a recipe. The smell and taste of something you grew up with will remind you of home.

Keep Familiarity a Priority

A small reminder from home could reduce the chances of homesickness. Try keeping a photo of your family in your dorm room or a keepsake from a family vacation. When you move into your dorm, make sure to bring at least one small keepsake from home that will remind you of your roots every time you look at it.

Do Something Fun

Create new memories on campus with the friends you make. Your campus is full of activities and clubs to join and each new activity is brimming with potential friends. If you’re sporty, try your hand at ultimate frisbee or join an intramural sports team. If you have an academic passion, meet up with people from your major and discuss topics you’re passionate about.

Read Your Hometown Newspaper

Stay connected with the happenings of your hometown and it will make the distance seem smaller. When you do return home, you’ll be up-to-date on the city.