Feeling Homesick or Overwhelmed? You’re Not Alone

Hey there!

We know college isn’t always as picture-perfect as it looks on social media. Maybe you’re buried under assignments, working part-time, or trying to figure out internships On top of all that, you’re missing home. The food, the people, the language, even the chaos you grew up with. You’re not alone.

Almost every international student hits a point where the initial excitement fades, and homesickness or stress creeps in. It’s normal and it will get better. Until then, here are some gentle, practical ways to take care of yourself and feel a little more at home while away from home.

1. Let Yourself Feel It

Missing home doesn’t make you ungrateful, it makes you human. College in a new country is a big change. You’re adjusting to everything at once: culture, classes, expectations, even how people socialize.

Try journaling how you feel. Putting your thoughts into words can help you make sense of the emotions instead of feeling buried by them. You’ll be surprised how much clarity a page and a pen can bring.

2. Build a Routine You Can Rely On

Homesickness thrives in chaos. A routine gives your brain something to hold onto. Start simple: wake up, eat, study, work out, call home, rest. Mix in little things that bring you joy - like a walk around campus, a weekly club meeting, or your favorite music playlist during breakfast.

Structure doesn’t just organize your time, it gives your new life rhythm and meaning.

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3. Talk to Home But Don’t Live There

Video calls with family can be a lifeline, especially during tough days. But if you find yourself constantly checking in or staying up at odd hours to talk to people back home, it might be time to reset the balance. Set aside specific times to catch up, so you’re still connected without missing the moments happening around you. The more rooted you feel where you are, the easier it gets.

4. Find “Your People” on Campus

The best antidote to homesickness? A sense of belonging. You don’t have to find your forever friends on day one, but make an effort to start. Join a club that feels interesting. Say yes to that casual dorm hangout. Go to a cultural event or a campus game night, even if it’s just for 20 minutes.

Need Help With Any of This? Talk to a Mentor 1:1

Figuring out your next steps after visa approval can be exciting - but also overwhelming. If you’d rather talk through your plans with someone who’s been in your shoes, we’ve got you covered.

Book a free 30-minute 1:1 mentorship call with Amanda or Ansh (the ones writing this!), we’re here to make your transition smoother.

👉 Book a 1:1 Mentorship Call

5. Take Care of Yourself

Homesickness and stress hit harder when you’re not eating well, running on 3 hours of sleep, or skipping movement altogether. Make time to take care of your body: cook something simple, take a walk, stretch, nap if you need to.

And if it ever feels like too much, reach out. Your school’s counseling center is there for exactly this. There’s no shame in needing support - it’s brave to ask for it.

6. This Is Hard But It’s Also a Huge Opportunity

Yes, adjusting is hard. But it’s also one of the most powerful growth moments you’ll ever have. You’re learning how to live, adapt, and thrive in a whole new country. You’re building resilience and it’s going to serve you for life. So be kind to yourself. Keep trying. Keep showing up. And know that you don’t have to have it all figured out. You're already doing better than you think.

P.S - If you haven’t already, check out Roam Connect - our platform to meet other international students from your school, city, or even home country. Whether you’re looking for someone to vent with, grab a meal, or just chat, connection makes everything easier.

We’re cheering for you, always.
The Roam Growth Team 🧡