For When You’re Missing Home

For When You’re Missing Home

It’s been a while since you’ve seen your parents, your siblings, or your pets and at this point in the semester you’re probably dragging. It’s already been a month since fall break and we’ve got another month to go before Thanksgiving break, so how do you cope with the homesickness that just kicked in?

Well, in my year and a half of college I’ve gone through my fair share of homesickness. At times I’ve overcome it quite easily, but other times that hasn’t been the case.

Last year, I definitely found it hard to be away from my family for such a long time. When my roommate and I were having serious cases of homesickness we thought it best to spend time with our other good friends…Ben & Jerry. Not so much spending, but actually sharing a pint of our favorite flavor of ice cream. Every once in a while this is the perfect homesickness strategy, but I would suggest a different game plan.

If you’d rather skip the ice cream therapy, try one of these strategies instead:

  1. Talk to Your Roomie.  I always feel better after I talk things out. Plus, the chances are pretty high that your roommate is feeling the same way you are and will really appreciate having someone to talk to.
  2. Take a Chicago Adventure. Doing something fun in the city with your friends will be a quick way to get your mind off of anything. Hang out in Millennium Park, explore a neighborhood, or eat some authentic Chicago deep dish.
  3. Go Ahead and Call Home. Your family will be excited to talk to you. Hearing a little bit about what they’ve been up to will be good for you too. (Be cautious with this one though, if your parents live close enough a surprise visit to cheer you up might be in the works.)
  4. Do Something that puts You in a Good Mood. Try watching a funny movie or having a dance party. Anything that is sure to put a smile on your face is perfect

When it comes down to it almost every college student will get homesick at some point. Don’t panic. Over time you’ll learn what strategies will cure your homesickness.

Comments are closed.