Study Abroad Blog: Navigating the Waves of Homesickness
By Nina Prenosil
Content
There may come a time during your study abroad experience when you start to miss the comforts of home and the life you momentarily left behind. While studying abroad is an amazing opportunity to expand your horizons and gain new perspectives, it is also a time of adjustment. If you feel homesick while studying abroad, remember that it is completely normal and it is also completely normal not to feel homesick at all. We all have different experiences abroad – each unique in its own way. But if you do feel homesick or expect that you may, keep on reading for some advice on how to combat it.
Know that it’s Normal
Most if not all of the people I have met while abroad shared that at one point or another, they experienced some form of homesickness. Some of my peers shared that the second they arrived they already missed home and others noted that it took a few weeks for them to get homesick. Homesickness also may not be a one-and-done feeling either. Throughout my time in Florence, I felt homesick every so often, but the feeling never lingered too long. During the first two weeks, I was a bit overwhelmed by all of the changes happening around me and felt a longing for home, but after spending time adjusting to my new life all of those anxious feelings dissipated. It was so helpful to know that my friends and peers also shared the same feelings, and that I wasn’t alone. It can be hard to feel like you are the only one experiencing those emotions, but that is never the case.
Bring reminders of home
One thing I recommend is bringing things from home that bring you comfort – even if it's just printed-out photos or a stuffed animal. I didn’t bring any printed photos and I really wish I had – so keep that in mind before you leave for abroad. I did however bring my favorite stuffed animal and my slippers I can’t live without. Having a few comforts from home makes moving into a new space that much easier!
Also, if you have a favorite snack you love I would suggest stocking up on it and bringing it with you if you don’t think it will be available in your study abroad country. While of course, the food abroad is going to be delicious, sometimes you will crave your go-to snack.
Call friends and family
Even though there will be a time difference when you study abroad, it is important to make time to call loved ones. I would recommend scheduling calls with those you want to talk to, as it makes the time difference easier to manage.
Another great way to keep in contact with loved ones is by trying to send one picture a day. I do my best to send my dad at least one photo every day to keep him updated on my journeys abroad. This has also been a great way for me to remember to take at least one picture every day.
My best piece of advice, and one that worked well for me, was simply remembering that your study abroad experience is such a short period in comparison to the rest of your college experience. You can look at this in two ways. When I’m homesick I think to myself “It’s okay! I’ll be home soon!” but when I’m not homesick I think “Wow I can’t believe how little time I have left, I wish I had more!”
As I said before, experiencing homesickness may be something that you will deal with while studying abroad, but not to worry! The feeling is normal and temporary and UMass will be waiting for you when you get back!