Being away from home during these cold months can be draining, and students start to feel homesick.
The longing for home lingers as the new year settles in and students return to campus after the holidays. For both international and domestic students, the need to be with loved ones and the wish to be in the sweetness of their home continues throughout the whole year.
Be mindful, there are students due to personal dilemmas, financial restraints, or distance, who weren’t able to go back home.
Creating a home away from home with the resources available on campus is essential for those who are seeking comfort and support.
To bring home to those who stayed locally for the holidays and those coming home from college, here are ways to make you feel at home, when you’re away from home!
Creating A Sense of Community.
For students studying abroad, Georgia Southern’s International Student Admissions & Programs (ISAP) Department offers several opportunities:
- International orientations
- Cultural celebrations
- Seasonal socials to build connections with others, ultimately creating a sense of belonging.
One outstanding ISAP event last semester was a traditional Thanksgiving lunch during the fall break, with over 65 students coming together to share a meal together in unity.
When asked about students feeling homesick during this past holiday season, ISAP director, Ron Jones, shares that it is “natural to feel this way during the holidays-they are not alone” and no matter how far away from home you are “ISAP is always here to support our students!”
With the start of a new semester, comes the start of many upcoming and exciting events that ISAP will continue to foster our campus community with.
Maintaining Cherished Traditions!
Bringing mementos from home such as postcards, photos, and national snacks to help personalize living spaces. Having a comfortable and safe space is key to building a home away from home. Jones explains, “These mementos also serve as great conversation starters with American friends.”
You can maintain your traditions whether it’s cooking a homemade dish, calling your loved ones, or following a cherished routine. Bahamian student Jade Gibson, explains what she does whenever that homesick feeling settles in.
She says, “I would call my auntie, call my cousins, then I would go buy some food–to cook–and eat with them.” Small actions, like sharing a meal with loved ones are just one way to cherish traditions. You are just one call away!
Being away from home is not always ideal, however, the winter season provides an opportunity to create memories and share traditions with other students and peers.
Joining student organizations, exploring local campus events, and even decorating your living space will help make living away from home easier.
ISAP is always there to support international students, crafting and hosting thoughtful events that bring their faraway home to them! As Ron Jones reminds us, “ISAP is always here to support our students!”
As you navigate through the new year and new semester, remember that home is a feeling you can create, no matter where you are.
Embrace new opportunities and make the most of your time at Georgia Southern, a place where you can build connections, and develop a sense of community, no matter how far you are from home.