Living away from home for the first time can be a daunting task. Alongside all the hustle and bustle of entering university, leaving your home, whether you are from the big city or a small rural town is a huge step forward in your life. The responsibilities of living everyday life are entirely upon you, the young and impressionable first year. While some students are used to different kinds of luxuries from home, it is important to realize that feeling homesick is more common than you think. When coming to university, you are tossed into an unfamiliar environment and surrounded by various people you have never met. However, there are a few things you can do to avoid the uneasy feeling of homesickness as you continue your journey through first year.
Explore campus
One of the best things to do when you are feeling homesick is to get out of your dorm room and explore what the U of G campus has to offer. With unique buildings, a variety of different residences, enticing food courts, and numerous green spaces, the campus is filled with fun and exciting things at every corner. Not only will exploring campus help you to avoid getting lost on your way to class, but you will also be able to find secluded study spaces and the best eating spots. While being a hermit and staying indoors may seem tempting (especially during the brutal winter cold), making an effort to explore and become immersed in the campus environment is a great way to combat feelings of homesickness.
Make an effort to be active
Joining intramurals or getting a membership at the Athletics Centre can become immensely important to your health and well-being throughout the school year. With the unfamiliarity of first year and the newfound freedom that comes with the experience, physical activity can help promote consistency and routine in an otherwise chaotic transition. Participating in a team environment and following a well-planned regimen can help keep your body healthy and your mind occupied during stressful times.
Acknowledge your perspective
The upcoming experiences as a first year student at university can become some of the most exciting and influential years in your life. Allow yourself time to reflect on your situation as a student and realize that there are many others who feel the same way. Being homesick is a natural response to your sudden change of environment—there is nothing stopping you from seeking out the resources you need to succeed and feel better. Acknowledging your perspective can help you remain grounded and can ultimately lead you to overcome the adversity that comes with feeling homesick.