So I just returned to college from being home for a little more than a week for spring break. I was counting down the days until break would come and once it finally did, I was so happy. But that time passed by so quickly and here I am again, back at school and extremely homesick. My dad just left this afternoon after we had lunch together and before he even left I started to miss him already. Before I started college I was so excited because I could not wait to get away from my family, but as soon as I left, I missed them immediately. I had a 3.925 GPA first semester and am doing well so far this semester, though there are only 6 weeks left with a lot to do. I’m stressed out and homesick and I don’t know what to do. I am already involved in a lot of clubs on campus and have a work study job, but no matter how immersed in work I get, I still find myself missing home. Anyone have any advice for how to get through the last few weeks of this semester?
Do you call or Skype your family?
I usually text everyone in my immediate family at least once a day or every few days, but it’s hard to call since we all have such busy schedules. I just saw my siblings yesterday and my dad today but I still miss them all so much.
I’m in the same situation as you, you’re not alone.
Try to call them if you can!! Its a lot better than texting. I got homesick first semester so I can relate. Can your family mail you something from home that reminds you of them? A blanket, keepsake, pillow, something? I know it sounds weird but I had a friend whose mom sent her a blanket they had in their living room and it reminded her of home. Can you go home on weekends?
I’m sorry you’re feeling that way! Second semester sophomore here, so I totally understand. I think the second semester is often harder than the first. A couple of pieces of good news: (1) it will get better as you get used to making the best of limited contact, and (2) homesickness can be a good sign. It means there are people who love you and care about you at home, which is great.
A few things you can do:
- As previous posters have mentioned, calling or Skyping (I personally recommend Skype because you can SEE your family) can be even nicer than just texting. The immediate contact is really comforting. If you’re Skyping, have your parents take the computer into your bedroom to show you it’s still there and exactly the way you left it. If you have pets, make sure you get some screen time with them too! I know people who miss their dogs as much as they miss their family. My parents once put a camera at the place where I always used to sit in the kitchen at breakfast time, so I could hang out and see them making breakfast and chat.
- Speaking of missing parents and pets, have some pictures around of your family, your home, pretty much anything you miss. These can be actual photographs that you put on the wall, or just an album on your phone that you can flip through when you feel lonely. Change your desktop background to a picture of your house.
- Immersing yourself in school, work, and extracurricular activities is a great idea. Remember that you are living at school so you can do your best at your job of being a student.
- Remind yourself that school is mostly temporary, but home will always be there.
I hope this helps! Good luck with the rest of your semester, seems like you’re off to an awesome start!