3 answers
Kailynn
Student
11
Questions
Asked
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What are some items that a soon to be freshman in college can take from their home while they are staying a dorm being homesick?
I'm a 18 year old senior student soon going to college at Bloomsburg Univeristy and will be on campus dorm with a roommate that I don't know yet until the spring. I know that some students get homesick and bring some items with them that will help them out with being away from home while they are in college.
(Cause right now I'm working on a canvas that I could take with me to remind me of home and my family)
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3 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Advisor | Freelance Writer | TRIO Program Director
1087
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Attending college away from home can sometimes be a very daunting experience, especially for people who are going to be away from home for an extended period of time. Attending college away definitely requires balancing your newfound independence with common sense values, to assist you in surviving the experience.
I always recommend prioritizing exploring your campus environment, creating a familiar living space, and campus activities like joining clubs to meet people, while also setting healthy communication boundaries with family to manage your homesickness. Transition do take time so attempt to be patient with the transition, manage your resources and money, and keep an open mindset to new experiences.
Here are some of the things that I recommend:
Explore Early: Not only go on a campus tour (which can be arranged online), but also walk around campus and your new college town to find study spots, coffee shops, and regional parks.
Get Involved: Join student life organizations like campus clubs and organizations to find friends with shared interests.
Don't Go Home Too Soon: Avoid returning home every weekend; it can hinder your ability to build lasting connections.
Be Open-Minded: Embrace new perspectives, other countries and cultures, and people, and consider taking classes outside your major (utilize your electives part of your college degree).
Create a safe and comfortable space: Decorate your dorm with pictures, posters, and familiar items to make it a comforting refuge.
Master Life Skills: Practice doing your own laundry, cleaning, cooking, and doing minor repairs.
Respect Your Roommates: Set clear expectations early regarding cleaning, visitors, and noise.
Manage Homesickness: It is normal to miss being at home, but avoid over-communicating with relatives and others at home. Schedule regular, but not daily, check-ins.
Be Patient: Transitioning into new environments takes time, so be patient with your adjustment.
Stay Healthy (take care of yourself): Find the campus health services, physical education, intramural and activity centers, and find a local doctor if necessary (in case of an emergency).
Budget Your Resources and Money Wisely: Create a budget and understand how to manage your own bank account and financial resources.
Get Organized: Keep important documents (identification, like drivers license, insurance cards, social security number) secure and accessible.
Use Resources: Don't hesitate to use campus support groups, tutoring centers, libraries, or counseling for academic anxiety or stress.
I always recommend prioritizing exploring your campus environment, creating a familiar living space, and campus activities like joining clubs to meet people, while also setting healthy communication boundaries with family to manage your homesickness. Transition do take time so attempt to be patient with the transition, manage your resources and money, and keep an open mindset to new experiences.
Here are some of the things that I recommend:
Explore Early: Not only go on a campus tour (which can be arranged online), but also walk around campus and your new college town to find study spots, coffee shops, and regional parks.
Get Involved: Join student life organizations like campus clubs and organizations to find friends with shared interests.
Don't Go Home Too Soon: Avoid returning home every weekend; it can hinder your ability to build lasting connections.
Be Open-Minded: Embrace new perspectives, other countries and cultures, and people, and consider taking classes outside your major (utilize your electives part of your college degree).
Create a safe and comfortable space: Decorate your dorm with pictures, posters, and familiar items to make it a comforting refuge.
Master Life Skills: Practice doing your own laundry, cleaning, cooking, and doing minor repairs.
Respect Your Roommates: Set clear expectations early regarding cleaning, visitors, and noise.
Manage Homesickness: It is normal to miss being at home, but avoid over-communicating with relatives and others at home. Schedule regular, but not daily, check-ins.
Be Patient: Transitioning into new environments takes time, so be patient with your adjustment.
Stay Healthy (take care of yourself): Find the campus health services, physical education, intramural and activity centers, and find a local doctor if necessary (in case of an emergency).
Budget Your Resources and Money Wisely: Create a budget and understand how to manage your own bank account and financial resources.
Get Organized: Keep important documents (identification, like drivers license, insurance cards, social security number) secure and accessible.
Use Resources: Don't hesitate to use campus support groups, tutoring centers, libraries, or counseling for academic anxiety or stress.
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach, Mentor
1209
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Kailynn,
A favorite pillow and blanket, pictures of your family, pets and friends, a picture calendar, a selection of favorite foods e.g. cookies/cakes/preserves - something to accompany you through the semester. Plenty of data and airtime to call home, exchange pictures etc. Maybe a joint blog to document your journey.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
A favorite pillow and blanket, pictures of your family, pets and friends, a picture calendar, a selection of favorite foods e.g. cookies/cakes/preserves - something to accompany you through the semester. Plenty of data and airtime to call home, exchange pictures etc. Maybe a joint blog to document your journey.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
Thank you for taking the time to help.
Kailynn
Candi Emerson
AVP- Program Management at AT&T
5
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Candi’s Answer
When you're in a new place and things feel tough, remember you have what it takes to succeed. Ask your family and friends to write you short notes with stories about how strong and determined you were when you were younger. Make your dorm feel like home with decorations and personal touches. Set up regular calls or video chats with loved ones to stay connected and grounded. Join campus activities to meet new people—after all, college is about building your future, making friends, and learning important life skills for lasting success.
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
Kailynn