As your student embarks on their first year of college, this time is filled with excitement and new opportunities. However, it can also bring challenges, including homesickness—a natural response to being away from the comfort and familiarity of home. Here are some tips to help your student adjust to college life and overcome homesickness.
Acknowledge their feelings
It’s important to let your freshmen know that feeling homesick is okay. Many students
go through this phase as they adjust to a new environment. By acknowledging their
feelings and providing a listening ear, you validate their experience and help
them feel less alone.
Encourage involvement on campus
One of the best ways to combat homesickness is to
get involved. Encourage your student to
join clubs, attend events,
play intramural sports, or participate in activities that interest them. Being
part of a community and making new friends can help them feel more connected and
reduce feelings of isolation.
Promote routine and structure
Establishing a daily routine can provide a sense of stability for your student. Encourage
them to maintain regular study schedules, meal times, and sleep patterns. A routine
can offer comfort during times of change and help them focus on their responsibilities.
Stay connected–but not too much
While maintaining regular communication with your student is important, it’s equally
important to encourage them to immerse themselves in their new environment. Finding
a balance between staying in touch and giving them space to grow is key. Consider
setting up a regular call or video chat schedule that allows for connection without
being overwhelming.
Visit, But Plan It Carefully
Visiting your student at college can be a great way to ease homesickness, but timing
is crucial. Plan visits that don’t disrupt their adjustment process or academic
schedule. A visit during a holiday or long weekend can be a welcome break, but
too many visits might make it harder for them to settle in. The same goes for
their visits home—encourage them to stay on campus and immerse themselves in
their new environment. This is key to helping them connect, engage, and work
through homesickness. homesickness.
Encourage Self-Care
Homesickness can often be eased by taking care of oneself. Encourage your student to stay active, eat well, and get enough rest. Exercise, in particular, is a great stress reliever and can improve mood and energy levels.
Remind Them of the Big Picture
Help your student focus on the long-term benefits of their college experience. Remind
them of their goals, the exciting opportunities ahead, and how this transition
is part of their personal growth. Sometimes, a little perspective can go a long
way in helping them push through tough times.
Seek Support if Needed
If homesickness persists or worsens, it might be helpful to suggest that your student
seek support from campus resources.
Our Office of Student Success is here to help.
Encourage your student to reach out to their advisor or just walk in and visit.
Homesickness is a common part of the college experience, and with your support, your student can navigate this challenge successfully. By encouraging them to embrace new experiences while staying connected to home in healthy ways, you can help them build resilience and confidence as they start this exciting new chapter.