How to reduce homesickness abroad as a student? No level of planning prepares you for change, especially if it involves being away from the people you love. Usually, students studying abroad struggle to settle and fit in during their first academic semester, which translates to poor academic performance. However, these top 10 tips to reduce homesickness abroad as a student will equip you with the tricks you need during the transition.
10 tips to reduce homesickness abroad as a student
1. Be Open to Making New Friends
Strange as it might sound, making new friends is one of the best tips for getting used to and settling in your college abroad. So, do not shy away when your classmates say hi or plan a hangout. The other places you could make friends include the gym, church or where you stay. Have an open mind about cultural diversity. It is also an opportunity to view the world from a different angle.
2. Get “Adopted”
Feeling lonely is not strange, given you are miles away from your family and friends. This feeling might overwhelm you, especially since you do not have a network and support system around you. However, you could create a similar network in your new country.
Make new friends, especially locals, and solidify the connection so much that they tag you along during family functions. This way, you will not feel lost or alone.
3. Talk to Others About How You Genuinely Feel
You might feel the pressure to be excited about the transition and how many expectations you have about the experience. However, things might not turn out as planned, which is okay. Should you feel too overwhelmed, do not stop yourself from feeling the emotions. Seek help if need be. Let your loved ones back at home know how you genuinely feel. There is no shame in being homesick.
4. Create a Routine
Imagine being in a new environment surrounded by strangers; how scary can it be? Settling down might take longer than expected and maybe cost you your studies. You are more likely to miss the first classes because you do not know the university lecture halls or are unaware of your academic schedule.
Creating a routine will help you stay ahead of your schedule. For instance, you will know when to submit assignments and show up for exams. If you need assistance tackling your studies, consider sites that offer the service. Finally, if you are stuck, search, write my personal statement on your browser, and the platforms that provide the service will pop up.
5. Schedule Time to Do the Things You Love
It is possible to feel pressured to fit into a new lifestyle. However, you cannot snap into it; you will likely lose yourself if you do. So, create time to do the things you love as you adjust and pick up new habits. You will feel more at home in your body, which will help you get used to the transition.
6. Keep Up With Your Habits
Relocating to a new country might sound like a new lease on life, but it does not mean letting go of your habits. You might miss out on the exciting things that used to make you happy, and this might feel odd. Nonetheless, you have the chance to create that version of yourself in your new location.
7. Do Something You Love
If you have hobbies that form part of your identity, do not forego them. For instance, find a gym in your new country if you love working out.
8. Make Your New House a Home
If you are fortunate enough to have an apartment, make it as cozy as possible. Going through drastic life changes is already stressful enough; you do not want to get home to a location that does not spark joy. A cozy space also helps reduce anxiety and stress.
9. Work on Positive Thinking
You spend most of your time in your thoughts, which dictate how you physically react to situations. Therefore, having a positive attitude and mindset is fundamental to your productivity. It also helps with stress. Remember, you are away from your family and friends for a season, and every sacrifice will pay off.
10. Overexpose Yourself
You will undoubtedly feel overwhelmed by being in a new country. Nonetheless, this is inevitable. So, the more you overexpose yourself to the places that feel uncomfortable, like overcrowded markets, the easier it will be to get used to it. You will eventually build confidence, and ultimately, you will feel more relaxed.
These top 10 ways to reduce homesickness abroad as a student will help you cope with the drastic change. They will only work if you are intentional about it.
I’m a tech enthusiast, entrepreneur, digital marketer and professional blogger equipped with skills in Digital Marketing, SEO, SEM, SMM, and lead generation. My objective is to simplify technology for you through detailed guides and reviews. I discovered WordPress while setting up my first business site and instantly became enamored. When not crafting websites, making content, or helping clients enhance their online ventures, I usually take care of my health and spend time with family, and explore the world. Connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin or read my complete biography.