No matter how excited you are about going to uni, it’s very common, and indeed natural, for you to feel homesick. Don’t feel bad; remember, you are not the only one! Here are some tips I’d like to share with you from an international perspective on dealing with homesickness.
1. Stay connected with friends and family
You miss family days out or hang-outs with your friends, right? Well, that’s totally understandable. Why not take advantage of the increasingly advanced technology that we have? Text or even video-call your family and friends regularly! You are likely to feel less homesick if you feel like you are still keeping in touch with them, even though you are far away from home.
However – build a new social network here!
More often than not, we feel homesick because we are lonely in an alien environment. While still staying in contact with your family and friends back home, my advice would be to make more new friend here in York. Don’t be shy! The people here are really friendly. You may start thinking about how to introduce yourself, how you can engage in banter and what you can share with your new friends to break the ice.
2. Make friends from your own country
It’s never a bad idea to make friends with people who share similar backgrounds with you. You might feel anxious at times, but you might also find people who really understand what you are going through. Go ahead – it’s always great to build a supportive network.
However; try to avoid falling into your comfort zone
Remember that you came all the way to York to meet new people, have new experiences and gain new insights. Don’t let dealing with homesickness stop you. Make the most of it! Joining clubs and societies can allow you to meet different people with same interests. Remember to follow the YUSU Facebook page and check out the Freshers’ Fair in October. It’s the beginning of your vibrant uni life!
3. Bring your home comforts with you
You may have a teddy bear, small pillow or blanket that has been accompanying you for almost 20 years. Bring them to York with you! Something like this can help to cheer you up when you feel down.
Miss your local cuisine? Learn how to cook it on your own! Or – going to a restaurant that serves food from your hometown is another good option.
Adapt into life here gradually
We usually feel homesick because we are not acquainted with the surroundings. So when you arrive in York, remember to go for walks; doing some sight-seeings and learning about where to buy certain things will help a lot. Think about how to get into a new routine in a new environment. You will become more familiar with the places, and will gradually build up a new lifestyle that suits you over time. In this case, you will definitely be dealing with homesickness, as York will become your second home.
Overall – York is amazing! Our community is very inclusive and supportive. Feeling homesick is common, but it’s usually because we haven’t gotten used to the life here yet. Immersing yourself in the vibrant student life here will help you to make York your second home.
Find out more about being an international student at York.
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