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Homesickness/sadness

By Anonymous September 11, 2011 - 1:45pm
 
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I just wondered about some ways to combat homesickness. I am in my second year of graduate school 12 hours away from my hometown, and recently, I have been more homesick than I ever have. I feel completely alone, and am really struggling. I am sad all of the time, and even when I am with people, I still feel lonely (does that make sense?). I saw my family this past weekend, and that just made things worse. I'd really appreciate any advice anyone has about this- I feel like I am the only person I know who feels this way.

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I'm in my first year of grad school, 22 hours from home and feeling the same EXACT way. Any chance you're in St Louis? :)

What's worked best for me so far is to stay busy... it sounds trite, but explore as much as possible, throw yourself into work, and don't pass up an invitation to do something new.

Good luck, you're not alone!

September 18, 2011 - 5:49pm

Hi anon,
I remember my first year of graduate school, I was in a new state without knowing anyone there. I was also having trouble at home because I was in a relationship that wasnt approved at home. However, the ways I used to deal with cycles of depression, lonliness, and homesickness was that I would explore the new town I had relocated myself in, enjoyed my own apartment having the freedom to live life the way how I wanted to, and finally using skype was a great tool. I also then joined America Reads and met one of my best friends/future roommates in the process who is currently dating my cousin. Since then, my university town became one of the best places I have lived in. Now that I have moved back home ready for another transition and to do my Phd applications as well. I miss my independent life I had back home,
Instead of giving in to sadness, fight it. Explore the world for its beauty and enjoy the time at a university campus. Trust me its a world on its own. I would do anything to be in my own apartment back at my graduate school any day! :) Good luck and do keep us posted!

September 15, 2011 - 9:07am
EmpowHER Guest
Anonymous (reply to anonymos1486)

It was extremely difficult the first few weeks..but as time went on it got better. My sister tried for about 6 months to get use to being away from home, but she was just really sad about being away from everyone.
I just wanted to let you know you aren't the only.College Homesickness

December 10, 2012 - 11:09pm
EmpowHER Guest
Anonymous (reply to Anonymous)

I just wanted to let you know you aren't the only who has felt that way, and maybe there are graduate schools that maybe are closer to home that you could consider if you continue to feel this.front door

December 26, 2012 - 12:09am

Hi Anon,

I think Sysy gave you some good advice. Have you tried using our technology to your advantage? It sure doesn't replace physically having your family with you, but with things like Skype and Oovoo available for some face to face time, it may help you cope a little. If you feel like your feelings of loneliness don't get any better--consider finding a local school where you can finish while being close to your family. If you can get the same kind of education locally, then there's no use putting yourself through such loneliness.

Good luck to you,

Rosa

September 11, 2011 - 6:46pm

My sister had the same problem, and I knew I would too, so I stayed local for college. But my sister went to school about 4-6 hours away from our town--she ended up having to transfer locally, because she was just not ready to be so far away from everything and everyone she knew.
When I was away from my family for a couple months with no one I knew (only about 2 hours away), it was extremely difficult the first few weeks..but as time went on it got better. My sister tried for about 6 months to get use to being away from home, but she was just really sad about being away from everyone.
I just wanted to let you know you aren't the only who has felt that way, and maybe there are graduate schools that maybe are closer to home that you could consider if you continue to feel this way?

P.S. I think you should talk to your friends on campus, I'm sure they have felt that way one time or another and can really be a support system for you.

I wish you the best & hang in there!

September 11, 2011 - 2:31pm
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