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Missing Home? You're Not Alone

Starting university is exciting, but let's be honest, it can also feel a bit strange. One minute you're decorating your new room and meeting loads of new people, and the next you're suddenly craving your own bed, your pet, your family, or even your local takeaway.

If you're feeling homesick, don't worry. It doesn't mean you've made the wrong choice, and it certainly doesn't mean you're the only one. Lots of students experience homesickness, especially during the first few weeks.

Here are some top tips to help you settle in and feel more at home.

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Make Your Space Feel Like Yours Say "Yes" More Often Keep in Touch Create New Routines Get Out and Explore Be Kind to Yourself Talk About It Remember: It Gets Better Need a Chat?

Make Your Space Feel Like Yours

Your room might not feel like home straight away, but adding familiar touches can help.

Put up photos of family and friends
Bring your favourite blanket or mug
Add decorations, fairy lights or plants
Create a playlist that reminds you of home

A comfortable space can make a big difference when you're having a tough day.

Say "Yes" More Often

It can be tempting to stay in your room scrolling through social media, but getting involved is one of the best ways to settle in.

Try:

Joining a society or sports club
Attending events and welcome activities
Inviting a flatmate for a coffee
Going along to something even if it feels a little outside your comfort zone

Remember, lots of other students are looking for friends too.

Keep in Touch... But Not All Day

Staying connected to friends and family can be really comforting.

However, spending every spare minute calling home can sometimes make it harder to settle into your new surroundings.

Try to Find a Balance

Arrange regular catch-ups
Share updates and photos
Give yourself time to build your new routine too

Home isn't going anywhere.

Create New Routines

One of the biggest changes at university is losing your usual routine.

Creating a new one can help you feel more settled:

Have breakfast at the same time each day
Explore a new study spot
Schedule exercise or hobbies
Plan something to look forward to each week

Small routines can make a new place feel familiar surprisingly quickly.

Get Out and Explore

The more familiar your university town or city becomes, the more comfortable you'll feel.

Why Not...

Find your favourite coffee shop
Explore local parks or green spaces
Visit the Students' Union regularly
Discover where the best budget food spots are

Every little discovery helps turn a new place into your place.

Be Kind to Yourself

Moving to university is a huge life change.

It's completely normal to:

Miss home
Feel emotional
Have good days and bad days
Need time to adjust

Don't put pressure on yourself to feel settled immediately. Everyone adapts at their own pace.

Talk About It

Homesickness can feel lonely, but you don't have to handle it on your own.

People You Can Talk To

Flatmates
Friends
Course mates
Student mentors
Student Wellbeing

Talking to someone can help you realise just how common these feelings are.

Remember: It Gets Better

Homesickness doesn't usually disappear overnight, but it does get easier.

With time, you'll build new friendships, discover favourite places, and create routines that make university feel like home.

Need a Chat?

If homesickness is affecting your wellbeing or you're finding it difficult to cope, please get in touch with SWIS (Student Wellbeing and Inclusivity Service) or SU Advice. No problem is too small, and we're always happy to listen.

Quick Reminder

Missing home doesn't mean you're failing at university. It means you're human. Give yourself time, be kind to yourself, and remember that settling in is a journey, not a race.