By Kiesha Collins
GCU Office of Student Care
#Askingforafriend
Going away to college, whether it is local or out of state, can be both exciting and nerve-wrecking. It’s not unusual for college students to feel homesick.
Grand Canyon University brings in new students every semester, and some who arrived in January still might be getting acclimated. Like anything in life, it’s a process.
Initially, it can be quite a challenge for students who are learning to live on their own for the first time. Navigating new routines, a new environment and new people can be a lot to handle.
The key to dealing with homesickness is recognizing that this is a completely normal and even rational response to moving. Though it may feel overwhelming and cause a lot of anxiety, these feelings will pass in time.
There are many ways to cope with homesickness.
It is OK to continue to reach out to family and friends from back home. They can help you process your feelings.
But get to know the people around you. Developing a new sense of community at college will help you feel more at home and less alone.
Get to know your roommates, grab a meal with a classmate, join a club or life group, volunteer or join an intramural sport. GCU offers many opportunities for students to be part of a community.
If you are unsure of where to start, talk to your resident assistant, a professor, your Student Services counselor or even a peer.
You most likely had a comfortable routine while living at home. Try to develop a new routine at college to have some constants in your life. It could be going to the gym after class, walking the same route or waking up at the same time each day.
Bring comfort items from home that will help bring relief – photos of family, friends, pets, a childhood relic, etc. It could be anything that’s comforting as you cope with missing home.
Be kind to yourself as you adjust to a new life at college. Everyone adapts at their own pace, so there is no need to compare yourself to those around you. Give yourself time to adjust to this new chapter in life.
However, if you are struggling and need additional support, speak with a campus therapist in the Office of Student Care. We are located on the second floor of the Student Life Building and have professionals available every day.
