Navigating Homesickness: Advice from an International Student

Ivy’s Story

Understanding Homesickness

Studying abroad is an exciting journey filled with new opportunities and experiences, but it often comes with the challenge of homesickness. It is important to know that homesickness is a natural response to change. Feeling out of place or missing home doesn’t mean you have failed to adapt, but it is a testament to how much you value your roots. As an international student, I’m no stranger to feeling overwhelmed at times, especially being so far away from home.

At first, I found it difficult to adjust to a completely new environment – everything from the food to the weather just felt so different. The long-distance made it harder to stay in touch with family and friends and sometimes I felt so disconnected from the things that once gave me so much comfort. Over time, I learned how to cope with homesickness and find balance by implementing strategies to adapt to my new home.

Staying Connected While Embracing the New Friendships

One of the most effective methods I’ve found to cope with homesickness is staying connected with friends and family back home. FaceTime calls or regular check-ins can make the distance feel smaller, allowing you to share the trivial details of your life and stay updated on what’s happening back at home.

These connections can help bridge the emotional gap. While it’s important to stay connected, it’s equally important to embrace the present and look forward towards the bigger picture-finding joy in your new life in your home away from home, and all the new experiences it brings. One of the best ways to ease homesickness is by going out and making some new friends whether it be your flat mates, course mates, or even new friends you make at sports events at the university.

Routines and Social Engagements

Establishing a set routine in an unfamiliar environment can provide a sense of stability. It could be something as simple as trying out a new restaurant with your friends, to attending the many sports at the university. I really enjoy going to Basketball training sessions at the university with my friends, as well as the dance classes from the dance society.

My favourite social activity that I look forward to attending every week would have to be FISH (Friendship International Students and Hosts) that happens every Monday night at the Market. This is the time where me and my friends all like to gather, to share stories and delicious food while playing games.

Making friends and becoming more involved in campus activities like the weekly Tuesday and Thursday pizza nights at the Engine Shed or bingo nights can help minimise feelings of homesickness as you will feel less isolated, and it provides you with a new emotional support outlet.

Staying Active

Homesickness often stems from feeling stuck in the past. Trying new hobbies or activities can make you feel excited about your present life. Physical activity can be a wonderful way to combat the heavy feelings of loneliness as exercise releases natural endorphins that can improve your mood and make you feel more energised.

I’ve found that keeping myself active by playing basketball or going out for a run with the weekly Saturday running club especially during wintertime when seasonal depression can make you feel especially low, and you find yourself missing home more often can really make a difference to your mood.

Be Patient

Adjusting to life in a new environment takes time and it’s okay to face some challenges along the way. Homesickness is a shared human emotion, whether you are an international student or someone who has simply moved away from home. Be patient with yourself and embrace the journey ahead.

As you adapt you will find that even though that feeling of homesickness may linger; it becomes a lot easier, and you will start to see this new place as an extension of who you’re becoming.

Find out about the support offered at UON.

Find out about support at UON

Mariyam Iva Ashraf (Ivy)

Mariyam Iva Ashraf - also known as Ivy - is studying BSc Sport Rehabilitation and Conditioning at the University of Northampton. She is also an Athlete Scholar for Basketball.