dealing with homesickness
Homesickness is common among new students. The feeling can come in various forms. Many times it is the combination of fear, the uneasiness of a new place, the desire to see a familiar face, the feeling of not being in control, the challenges of independence, the excitement of the new life ahead of you, and the pressure of living up to your own expectations.
It is important to remember that homesickness is not s sign of weakness, but one of change. It enables you to realize what you have grown to value in your life and maybe even what you've grown to depend on. It is an internal challenge that becomes one of the greatest learning experiences of your life. Homesickness is a feeling you should not have to conquer alone. Saint Mary's offers a variety of resources to assist you with your transition. Your Resident Advisor and Resident Director are there at all times, to be a friend and a support system. Additionally, the college has a Counseling Center, located on the first floor of De La Salle Hall. All of the resources previously mentioned are confidential outlets available for your use. You may also choose to talk to a Professor, a Brother, a friend, teammate or your roommate. All are very valuable options.
Remember, you are not the only one experiencing this feeling. Please take control of your feelings early, and be confident that you can overcome them. Do not allow them to overcome you. The Saint Mary's College community is here to help.
Ideas that may assist you in overcoming the feeling of homesickness:
- Continue to do activities that are familiar to you. Allow yourself to experience doing them in a new environment.
- Make photos, quotes, posters, and other important items visible in your room.
- Engage in conversation with others. Tell them what is important to you, your favorite stories and memories from home, and ask them to share their stories as well. Learning about others, and creating bonds in a new environment is comforting and familiar. Although, your friends at home are irreplaceable, remember that those tight bonds initially began with a simple conversation between two people who did not yet know each other. Every relationship must start somewhere.
- Get involved. Join a club, a sports team, attend hall programs and campus wide events.
