Hello everyone! I’m Jeena Thomas, your Vice President for HeMS faculty. Moving away from home is like jumping into a pool of ice-cold water—shocking, exhilarating, and a little bit terrifying (trust me, we’ve all been there). While the prospect of independence is exciting, it can also lead to a serious case of homesickness. But fear not! With the right strategies, you can not only combat those homesick blues but also thrive in your new surroundings. Here’s how to settle into your new home and enjoy the ride.

Stay Active and Engaged

• Keep Busy (Or at Least Pretend to Be)

One of the best ways to combat homesickness is to stay engaged. Join clubs, attend social events, and participate in Welcome Week activities— anything that gets you out of your room and away from the Netflix binge you’ve been pretending is a “social activity.” Remember, you’re not just a student; you’re a social butterfly in training! Don’t forget to flap your wings and meet new people.

• Explore Your New Environment (And Try Not to Get Lost)

Familiarizing yourself with your new surroundings is essential. Take time to explore your campus and the local area. Visit nearby cafes, parks, and landmarks. Just be sure to keep your phone handy to help you find your way home if you take a wrong turn.

Create a Comfortable Living Space

• Bring Home Comforts (And Maybe a Few Snacks)

Personalizing your living space can significantly enhance your comfort level. Bring items from home that evoke positive memories, like photos and favourite blankets. And don’t forget the snacks! Nothing says “I’m home” like a stash of your favourite chips or cookies. Just be careful not to eat them all in one sitting—your future self will thank you when you’re not crying over an empty bag of Doritos.

• Decorate Your Room (But Not Like a 12-Year-Old’s Birthday Party)

Take the time to decorate your room in a way that reflects your personality. Whether it’s through art, plants, or bedding, creating a space that feels uniquely yours can help you settle in. Just remember, less is more. Unless your style is “chaotic teenager,” in which case, go wild!

Maintain Connections with Home

• Stay in Touch (But Don’t Overshare)

While it’s important to establish your independence, maintaining connections with family and friends is equally vital. Regularly connecting through calls, texts, or video chats can provide comfort. Remember, your friends and family will want to hear about your adventures at Welcome, but less about your piles of laundry and dirty dishes.

• Write Letters (Because Who Doesn’t Love a Good Throwback?)

Consider writing letters to loved ones. This personal touch can be more meaningful than digital communication and allows you to express your feelings in a tangible way. Plus, it’s a great way to practice your handwriting—because let’s face it, typing has made us all a little lazy.

Take Care of Yourself

• Practice Self-Care (Don’t Just Binge-Watch)

Taking care of your physical and mental health is crucial during this transitional period. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can significantly improve your mood. Just remember, binge-watching your favourite show doesn’t count as “self-care.” Unless, of course, you’re watching while eating a salad. Then it’s a health trend!

• Be Patient with Yourself (And Your Sleep Schedule)

Adjusting to a new environment takes time, and it’s normal to experience homesickness. Allow yourself the grace to adapt at your own pace. And for the love of all that is good, don’t mess with the time difference! If you’re in a new time zone, your body will be confused enough without you trying to stay up until 3 a.m. just because “that’s when everyone back home is awake.” Trust us, your future self will not appreciate the 3 p.m. nap that turns into a full-blown hibernation.

To conclude, remember that feelings like homesickness lessen as you become more accustomed to your new life. Being patient with yourself can help ease the transition and foster a sense of belonging. Embrace this new chapter with an open heart and mind and remember that it’s perfectly normal to feel a mix of emotions as you embark on this exciting journey. With time, laughter, and maybe a few snacks, your new home can become a place of comfort and joy—just don’t forget to set your alarm for the right time!