2 answers
Kailynn
Student
11
Questions
Updated
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How can I not feel homesick during my first day of college? What are some tips and tricks to pass the first semester of college as a freshman?
I don't start college until the fall of 2026, and usually some students will feel homesick since they are far away from home. I might also need to tips and tricks from anyone that have been to college and graduated for freshman. I would greately appreciate it.
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2 answers
Kristina Macaluso
External Auditor/Accountant
5
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Kristina’s Answer
I would encourage building a "family" away from home. At the beginning it will require effort to put yourself if new places and meet new people, but becoming involved in freshman onboarding activities/welcome events, clubs, etc. can help build strong friendships and a network of people you can rely on. Being able to have friends to count on and talk to, will help your college campus feel more like a second "home."
Personally, the first couple weeks/months were hard for me as well. It was the first time I was away from my family/independent (where all my family lives in the same neighborhood and are very close). So couple of small tricks I did:
- I stayed busy with extracurriculars. Even if I was tired, I would go to events & talk to new people. I made sure my first round of classes, as I was quarter system, were "easier" to allow myself less academic stress & give me "time" for social events. If you need a part-time job, I would recommend looking at "on-campus" options as you typically work with other students, and can use that as a way to meet people while also helping financially, if needed.
- I made a playlist of "homey" music. There are some songs very nostalgic to home, where sometimes going to that playlist would be a quick comfort.
- Facetime. We have a huge benefit of tech allowing us to stay connected. So I would always facetime or call on the way to class if I missed my family.
- Find a hobby/join a club. Co-ed sports and working out, gave me an outlet. And usually the physical exercise would take my mind off things and make me feel better overall.
- Live with a roommate. Personally my roommate freshman year in the dorms (which highly encourage living in dorms), was an immediate friend & would go to these events with me. It's always nice to have almost a "default" buddy your first day :) I did a random roommate and it honestly worked out great! But I know a lot of people join incoming freshman groups to meet potential roommates they know.
Personally, the first couple weeks/months were hard for me as well. It was the first time I was away from my family/independent (where all my family lives in the same neighborhood and are very close). So couple of small tricks I did:
- I stayed busy with extracurriculars. Even if I was tired, I would go to events & talk to new people. I made sure my first round of classes, as I was quarter system, were "easier" to allow myself less academic stress & give me "time" for social events. If you need a part-time job, I would recommend looking at "on-campus" options as you typically work with other students, and can use that as a way to meet people while also helping financially, if needed.
- I made a playlist of "homey" music. There are some songs very nostalgic to home, where sometimes going to that playlist would be a quick comfort.
- Facetime. We have a huge benefit of tech allowing us to stay connected. So I would always facetime or call on the way to class if I missed my family.
- Find a hobby/join a club. Co-ed sports and working out, gave me an outlet. And usually the physical exercise would take my mind off things and make me feel better overall.
- Live with a roommate. Personally my roommate freshman year in the dorms (which highly encourage living in dorms), was an immediate friend & would go to these events with me. It's always nice to have almost a "default" buddy your first day :) I did a random roommate and it honestly worked out great! But I know a lot of people join incoming freshman groups to meet potential roommates they know.
REBECCA KILLMEYER
Consultant
10
Answers
Charlottesville, Virginia
Updated
REBECCA’s Answer
Being away from home can be tough, but keeping busy really helps. Spend time with your roommates, focus on your school work, and explore the campus to get familiar with everything. It's normal to feel homesick sometimes, and that's okay. Allow yourself to feel it, but try not to dwell on it too long. Talk to your roommates and friends—they're probably feeling the same way, even if they don't say it. Stay connected with family and friends back home through regular calls, emails, or texts. My parents used to call me every Sunday morning! Decorate your room with things from home to make it feel cozy. Try to meet or talk to someone new every day and join clubs or organizations at college. This can make your experience much more enjoyable!
REBECCA, thank you!
Kailynn