Dear Boilermaker,
Feeling homesick during your first semester in college is a very normal response to a separation from home, family, and friends. Homesickness is best characterized as the loss and grief people feel when they are away from their familiar environment. Almost all new college students experience it in one way or another.
Tips for coping with homesickness
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Know that your feelings are normal: It’s important to realize that many other students are going through similar struggles. Dealing with the feelings by yourself can feel even more isolating. Talking about your feelings with others can make it easier to cope.
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Take small steps toward becoming more involved: Though it may feel more comfortable to stay in your room when you’re feeling down or anxious, doing so can continue to make you feel alone or isolated. Getting out and doing things — even just getting outdoors for a walk — does a lot to lift feelings of sadness or depression. It will also give you a chance to meet others and get involved on campus. There are so many ways to get involved at Purdue. Explore the involvement resources available to you, and look for opportunities to step out of your comfort zone.
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Seek help: Make use of campus resources and staff who are there to help. Ask your academic advisor or your instructors where you can go for assistance, whether you need recommendations for ways to get involved on campus, or more serious support. Learn about advocacy and support resources on campus that help with students’ emotional and mental health, and reach out to them if you've been struggling.
Mark your calendar:
Sept. 24 – Homecoming (Visit the Weeks of Welcome website for new events and happenings leading up to Homecoming – this page will be updated regularly!) Week of Sept. 26 – Many courses will hold first exams during this week. Be sure to add important test dates and deadlines from each course syllabus to your calendar. Oct. 10-11 (Monday and Tuesday) – October Break (no classes) Visit our website to review past emails featuring weekly success tips for new Purdue students. Purdue Orientation Programs |