How to be Fearlessly Homesick

BY AMANDA WEIL HOW TO BE FEARLESSLY HOMESICK

“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” - Winnie the Pooh

Homesickness is not necessarily the sickness that comes to the top of mind right now, being that I am a Junior and know what it is like to be away from home for long periods of time. But, it can be a lingering feeling for many freshmen, as they transition to college. Especially for international students who may or may not be first-generation college students, or if they have never been to America.

This year, it may seem unexpected to hear someone say they miss home. Hasn’t quarantine made us stay close to home enough? Still, it may be easier to empathize with homesickness when we acknowledge that there can be a lot more ways to define home than a physical place.

Home can mean people, meals, smells, streets, shops, routines, and traditions which give us comfort and familiarity. Or, even the mailman you see every morning who gives you a wave hello. For me, I feel most at home with my dog. He makes me feel peaceful and relaxed.

During these times, it seems important to remember why we would ever put ourselves into a new, or uncomfortable situation to begin with. Of course, sometimes, it is not our choice. But other times, we may do it to grow.

Courage and homesickness seem to go hand in hand. In times of discomfort or uncertainty, we often want what feels familiar. Yet, moving towards what feels uncomfortable is how we can stretch ourselves.

So, be sure to recognize the discomfort that comes with living somewhere new as both homesickness and bravery. And in the meantime, here are some ways to feel more at home in a new place:

1. Be a tourist in your city

Soak up everything your city has to offer. You probably won’t stay in one place forever, so be sure to make the most of the time you have now! Hit up all the best sites, restaurants, museums, and shops. The tackier the better.

2. Host a potluck with your roommates

Home-cooked meals taste better in college. Cook your favorite dish from back home and tell your roommates to join in! You may even want to do a recipe exchange.

3. Become a regular at some new spots

You have to start somewhere! You know you’ve made it when the workers know you by name. Bonus points if the waiter knows your order.

4. Make a care package

Create a care package for yourself that feels like home. Your parent’s laundry detergent and blankets are all fair-game.

5. Remember why you chose to get out of your comfort zone and spend time in a new place

Remind yourself of how much you will grow from living in a new place! Look forward to all the new memories and stories you will create.

6. FaceTime your family and friends

This will give you the chance to see your loved ones, and it is more intimate than a phone call. You can reconnect and be reminded that you have a support system back home no matter how far the distance may be.

AISHA JANE, GRENADA, SPAIN

OLIVA O’BRIEN, LISBON, PORTUGAL