{How to: Beat Homesickness}

If you are feeling a little homesick, know that it is normal. You are in a place, away from the comfort of your family and friends, and unsure of your place at UNI. Most people find themselves feeling lonely and missing home. Here are a few tips for beating homesickness.

1. Frame your family. And friends too! Waking up to their picture by your alarm clock or a collage on your desk will spark memories and create emotions that help you remember that you are not alone. 

2. Fix your thinking. Feeling homesick can be overwhelming and can consume your every thought. Focus on thinking postively by listing out what you are enjoying about college thus far or brainstorm ways you can getmore connected.

3. Hang around on the weekends. You may think that staying on campus is the last  way to combat homesickness. But in fact, those who go home every weekend never really adjust to life away and can feel even deeper pangs of homesickness. The stronger network you have at UNI, the better you will feel about being away from home. 

4. Invite someone from home to visit. This can give you some quality time with a friend, significant other or family member you really miss while also getting you excited about sharing your new environment with them. Double whammy!

5. You are really not alone. There are instances when you will truly feel like you are on a deserted island, but in fact your are not. Remember that almost every other student is feeling or has felt the same way, and there are people on campus (RA's, advisors, counseling services) who are available to help you through your rough patches.

6. Invite your family to Family Weekend! Family weekend is a great chance to stay around campus and enjoy the atmosphere with all of the excitement. But it is an even better chance to have your family apart of the celebration. They can have lunch with you, go visit the college your major is a part of, check out the game, and much more! Learn more about Family Weekend here and be sure to invite your family!