It’s back to school: a tough task for returning students but a tougher task for those away from home for the first time.
I met a lot of international students during orientation week–some came with their parents, some without. It’s hard to imagine what it must be like to move away from home for the first time unless you have really experienced it. The anxiety of starting a new chapter in your life, the fear of not being able to make it through the year without your loved ones right next to you, and the excitement of meeting new people can be an exhausting combination.
Fortunately there are ways to cope with this tiring combination.
Get involved.
There are various activities taking place on campus throughout the year. From bake sales for societies to community events such as ‘Trick or Eat’ students can be involved in numerous events and not only contribute but get something back at the same time. You make new friends, discover more about your campus and community and make a difference. Keeping yourself busy is the best way to take your mind off homesickness.
Talk about it.
There are dozens of students going through the same thing you are, so don’t hesitate to talk about it. Go up to a person you vaguely know from class or a society and find out more about them. They may be just as homesick as you are and would love your company.
Keep familiar things.
The shock of a completely new environment can hit some people hard. Soften the shock by having a few familiar items in your room — pictures, gifts from friends and family, etc.– to make you feel more comfortable.
Don’t expect too much from yourself.
I have been going back home every summer for the last three summers but every time, EVERY TIME, I almost don’t want to come back. Don’t expect yourself to get adjusted to a new environment immediately. It’s going to take time.
Stay healthy.
Good food and plenty of exercise helps keep you physically and emotionally fit. Indulge in your hobbies if you can.
Stay in touch.
Keep sending letters or emails to your friends and family about how you’re adjusting to life here. It always helps to talk about it and helps even more when you talk about it to family.
St. Thomas, for the seniors, has become like a home away from home. I have made friends so close to my heart that it’s going to kill to leave them behind. But it’s important to remember that these friends were complete strangers before. It has to start somewhere, why not now?
Hope you guys have a fantastic year and you’ll be seeing more of me for sure.
