3 weeks ago
From Homesickness to Belonging: Coping While Studying Abroad
When you move far away to study, the first days are full of fun and new things.
After a few weeks, though, you might start to feel sad and miss your family.
This feeling is called homesickness, and it is very common for students in a new country.
Feeling homesick does not mean you made a wrong choice.
It just means your heart needs time to get used to a new place.
Doing small things, like joining a club or playing a sport, can help you feel better.
It is good to talk to your family, but you should also make new friends and explore.
If you feel really overwhelmed, teachers and school helpers can support you.
Most difficult weeks pass, and soon the new country can start to feel like home.
Homesickness typically sets in around the third or fourth week of studying abroad, once the initial excitement of arriving wears off.
Feeling homesick or lost during the first few months is a natural response, not a sign that the decision to study abroad was wrong.
Building a routine beyond classes—joining a student club or sports team, taking a part-time job where permitted, or going to the gym—helps students adapt.
Students should balance staying connected with family with making time to build friendships and explore their new surroundings.
Universities offer supportive resources, including advisers and counselling services, and difficult weeks are a normal part of adjustment.
- Who
- International students studying abroad, and international education strategist Papiya Majumdar, who offers coping advice.
- What
- Advice on coping with homesickness and adjusting to life in a new country, including building routines, balancing ties with home, and seeking university support.
- Where
- In the new country where students are studying; the article was published by The Telegraph India.
- When
- Homesickness commonly sets in around the third or fourth week after arrival, within the first few months of studying abroad.
- Why
- Being away from family, friends, familiar food, language and home is a natural emotional challenge that takes time to adjust to.
Key facts
- Author
- Papiya Majumdar, international education strategist
- Author experience
- Over 15 years in international education
- Typical homesickness timing
- Around the third or fourth week after arrival
- Coping step 1
- Create a routine beyond classes (clubs, sports, part-time jobs, gym)
- Coping step 2
- Balance staying connected with home and building a new life
- Coping step 3
- Accept that difficult weeks are a normal part of adjustment
- Coping step 4
- Ask for help; universities offer counselling and support services
- Publication
- The Telegraph India ([email protected])
Sources
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