It doesn’t happen immediately, but somewhere along the course of university you are bound to feel homesick. Being homesick doesn’t necessarily mean you will be on the next train back to your hometown. It may be as simple as a pang for mum’s cottage pie, or rolling around in bed listening for the sounds of your home.

Not taking care of it can lead to more serious issues such as depression, anger, and eating disorders. Regardless of what form it comes in, it will come. 

The most surefire way to fight off the disease is to surround yourself with things you are familiar with. Being around new people and a different environment can be trying. Try some of these tips:

• Learn to cook. Invite your friends over and make the cottage pie you’ve been craving. If it’s terrible, at the very least you have something to throw at each other. You can also have a care package posted to you with your favorite dry foods or find a restaurant and begin your own traditions. It’s really important to eat regular meals, despite your busy schedule and low budget.
• Call home. Your mum may say something similar, and she’s right. Calling home regularly keeps you standing firm. 
• Join a club. It may be hard for you to find people around you can connect with. Joining a club at least means you share the same interests. If there isn’t a capoeira club or a Meatloaf, Moustache or Midget lover’s group, then form one yourself—creating popular clubs looks great on your resume as well.
• Manage your time wisely. It’s difficult juggling classes, assigned reading, essays, clubs, a part-time job and having an active social life. Try to figure out what your priorities are. It might help to cut something out and figure in some alone time.
• Two words: Michael Jackson. Although MJ may not be your choice, listening to cheesy music, while singing and dancing is cathartic. Think Tom Cruise in ‘Risky Business.’
• Don’t make rash decisions. Big changes are hard on everyone. If it gets really bad, talk to your Residence Advisor or peer counselors on campus.

University is one of the most memorable experiences of your life. Try new things, relax when you have a moment, and get involved with school. The more you take in your surroundings, there is less of a chance you will become homesick.

Allicia Warren 29/07/09