By Ava C. Green, Features Editor
"How do I deal with homesickness?"
I’m glad you asked! As a homesickness expert, I can tell you that dealing with homesickness is not something that has a simple solution or quick results. I know that sounds pretty daunting, but stick with me here.
I stopped getting in touch with my loved ones back home because of how horribly I’d miss them afterwards. After a while, I got comfortable with the loneliness; it was easier to sit alone and throw myself a pity party than venture out of my cozy little comfort zone. I can’t tell you how much I regret this. It’s cliche, but it’s true: The easy way isn’t always the best way.
A lot of people say that “your people will find you – just give it time,” but who knows how long that could possibly take? I don't know about you, but I’m extremely impatient. So, if you are too, I’d suggest unraveling your cocoon of sadness and fuzzy blankets and going out to get involved in things on campus that you love to do.
Not only will it give you something to distract you from thinking about being homesick, but you’ll also meet people that like to do the same things as you and share your interests. Know that these new friends will never replace the people you love back at home. However, having things to do and people to see will remind you of why you are happy to be at school and solidify the fact that you belong here.
Everyone’s advice for college is always “get involved,” “try new things” and so on. I can assure you, though, that homesickness is something that really is solved by involvement. Don’t give up on yourself. You are capable and worthy of the best college experience, but a great four years won’t just fall right at your feet. You’ve got to look for it and be open to it.
Just keep in touch with your support system back at home and remember you can form one here too. It’s just up to you to do so. Everyone else is just as nervous about making friends and trying new things as you are, so you’ve got nothing to lose. There are so many friends just waiting to be made – you just have to look.
To submit a question to “Ava’s Guide to Everything” email green98@canisius.edu or DM us on instagram @thecanisiusgriffin