Vidhyasree shares her top tips on beating homesickness as a new student.
Moving away from home to a new country for study is exciting, but homesickness is also very real. Missing family, friends, familiar food, and surroundings is completely normal. But worry not, I experienced it all during my first year and I’m here to share my top tips on managing homesickness.
Technology makes it easier than ever to keep in touch with loved ones. Schedule regular video calls with family and friends so you can share updates and feel connected. Make sure to strike a healthy balance, as too much reliance on speaking to people from home can make it difficult to settle into your new environment.
A daily routine can provide structure and stability even when everything around you feels new. It helps you create a feeling of normality, thus helping you feel more like you’re in control.
University has a lot to offer from a social perspective as well as academic! My favourite was attending the accommodation events which helped me make friends and get to know neighbours too, while having fun with the activities and enjoying yummy food. Join a society which interests you or take part in an event on campus. Being a trained classical dancer, I’m part of the Bharatanatyam Society, which allowed me to practice my skills, while also making some of my favourite memories and friends.
Instead of focusing on what you miss, spend time discovering your local area and attractions. For me, I had loads of fun at Cadbury World and visiting the Winterbourne House and Garden with my flatmates was truly a great way to bond.
Small reminders of home can provide comfort. I brought in a few pictures and decor from home that helped me feel connected and make my space feel like home. This really helped on days when I was feeling down and missing my family. It made me feel closer to them and reminded me why I work so hard, because I want to make them proud.
Homesickness increases when you’re bored, that’s why it’s important to keep yourself busy. Find something you’d enjoy doing or learn a new skill - for me, it was cooking. Going from someone who never cooked, to becoming someone who cooks to de-stress, it’s been a great life skill and hobby to adopt!
If homesickness becomes overwhelming, reach out for help. The University has many resources to support you, including wellbeing officers and wellbeing programmes on campus and at your student accommodation.
Homesickness is a common part of the student experience, but with the right outlook, you can overcome it. Make sure you give yourself time to adjust and don’t expect yourself to adapt immediately. Soon Birmingham will feel like your second home!
Dental Materials Science MSc/Diploma/Certificate
My name is Vidhyasree Manoj Kumar and I study MSc Dental Materials Science at the University of Birmingham.
