You may miss your home when you study abroad. This is normal, and it is important to understand that there is nothing wrong with you. Here are a few things that I do when I feel this way.
Every time I study abroad I miss my country, my friends, my family and even my bedroom. This feeling is strongest for me after the first few days of my stay when the excitement of arriving is over, but I have not yet settled into my new home. After a little while the feeling goes away by itself. There are a couple of important things that make it go away faster for me.
Get Out and About
Staying in your room is the worst thing you can do. Whether you are in Halls of Residence or a homestay, London is full of places to explore. Planning an outing gives you a sense of adventure and independence, which is probably why you came here in the first place.
For me, exploring my surroundings distracts me from what I am missing and getting to know the area makes it feel like my new home.
Give it a try – you’ll probably find that when you get back to your room at the end of a full day of sightseeing that you haven’t thought about your family for hours!
Asking for Help
Sometimes I just need to talk to someone, particularly when I am missing my parents. Try asking your host family for some sympathy if you are staying in a homestay. London can seem full of people who have no interest in you, but your host family can usually understand how you are feeling. After all, they have to live in the big city every day!
Staying in contact with your own family is another obvious way to find support during this time. All student accommodation options will include free WiFi so you’ll be able to speak with them cheaply and often.
Give Yourself a Break
Getting out of my room and talking to other people are the most effective ways for me to handle the times when I am missing home, but the most important thing to remember is that it’s okay to feel this way and that it won’t last.
It is entirely natural to miss the things you know at different points during your course, and it doesn’t mean that the trip is a failure. Pull out that souvenir of home that you packed in your suitcase or ask your mother to post a care package full of favourite foods. You’ll soon be feeling better and ready to enjoy your time in London.
Are You Having Difficulty Choosing The Right Student Accommodation For You?
Britannia Student Services has a team of experienced staff who understand what it is like to be in a foreign country. We can help you find accommodation that will feel like a home away from home. Whether it’s a flat share, a room in a Hall of Residence, or a homestay, London offers a range of options that will suit you. Get in touch and let us help you choose.