Homesick

When going off to college we automatically think our weekends will be spent studying, making new friends, and attending on campus activities. You’re so excited about learning your way around campus and making sure all financial aid paper work is in order, that being homesick is the last thing on your mind. Think about all the things you’re missing: a home cooked meal, privacy, less responsibility, and quiet time ….you should be worried if you don’t get homesick, LOL!

This can be a challenge for some, but let TGHT help you survive being homesick.

Photo Credit: HERE

Leave your dorm room: It’s okay to talk to your parents, skype your friends or talk on the phone to those you miss but being in your room is when you’re most homesick. Designate one day during the week where you’ll make those types of phone calls. If you’re starting to feel homesick in your room, head to your campus university center or coffee shop to mingle or do some reading.

Be sad and get over it: If you miss home, it’s normal to be sad. We’re pretty positive that other students are feeling the same way you are. Just remember, be sad for a day and that’s it! When that day passes it’s time to move on, get up, and get active. Join an on campus club, work out, attend an event, and make sure you’re getting the full “campus life” experience.

Make college home: Yes we all know college will never replace where you grew up, but you can always make some of the same memories. Think of it as a home away from home. It’s all about recreating those moments. Did you have great friends? Were you heavily involved in your community? Love for journalism? Meet new people, sign up for campus volunteer groups, or join the schools newspaper staff. Also decorate your dorm room similar to your room at home; this will help you feel more comfortable in your new space.

You’re not alone: Do you feel like everyone is adjusting so well to campus life and you’re the only one in your dorm room homesick? That’s not true at all; you’re not alone so take the time to reach out to others.  Have a “homesick sleepover” night and invite your new friends, make sure they bring blankets, movies, and snacks. Are you good at planning? Organize a day to go out and volunteer at a local shelter. This will remind you how precious family time is and how fortunate you are to go off to college.  

Make sure you’re keeping in contact with your high school friends. They may be struggling with homesick and need to hear your voice. Schedule a three way call once a week to update each other on college life and experiences or schedule a weekend visit and enjoy a different college atmosphere. Having those childhood friends close during your college years will help your transition even smoother.

Do you have any tips for a homesick college student? 

Balancing It All

When you’re all settled in your dorm and that first month of college has flown by, you have so much school work but still want to hang out with your new college friends. When in college you have your freedom and parents are not there to make sure homework is done before catching a midweek movie with friends. Papers due, lab reports to be submitted, but you want to attend your schools rival football game. What’s a girl to do!? Let’s find balance. When you figure out how to balance your school work and social life, college becomes just a little bit easier. ToGetHerThere is here to help.

Get Organized: Do you own a personal planner? Planners help with due dates, holidays, and scheduling your social life. You are able to check availability before planning trips with friends or volunteering for a highway trash pickup. School assignments come first and with your personal planner you’re able to make sure all work is completed before the due date sneaks up on you.

Study Spot: If you’re studying in bed while your roommate is blasting her favorite song, it’s time to rethink your space. The library should be your go to spot; you’re a lot less distracted and sometimes private rooms are available for study sessions or study groups.

Exercise:  Believe it or not, exercising is a big stress reliever and also keeps you energetic. Take some time out of your day for a quick yoga class, a run around campus, or on the treadmill.  This will give you time to reflect on your day and get your thoughts organized.

Sleep: Are you staying up late for cram sessions before a big test or laughing and watching late night movies with those new dorm buddies? Getting the proper amount of sleep is very important as a college student. Not getting rest can lead to a weak immune system and also hurt your classroom performance.  Make sleep a priority and try to get between 6-8 hours a night.

To Do List: Creating to do lists can not only help you stay organized and prioritize.  List also helps you to stay focused on one task and completing it before moving to the next. When you wake up, create a list: meeting, study for midterm, grocery shop, and sleep by 10p; there’s no better feeling than crossing off everything by the end of the day and feeling accomplished.

Have fun and enjoy your college experience, but also make sure your priorities come first and you’re not crossing yourself off the list.