Homesick Nostalgia

By Jennifer Retter

It’s 2:00 a.m., you’re tossing and turning in an unfamiliar bed, reflecting on the much-anticipated day that just ended. It was your first official day of college, and you happened upon a lot of strange things: a girl strutting into class in 6 inch heels, your roommate’s unsettling display of stuffed animals, a conversation about Doctor Who and a lot of PDA.

You had expected the friend-making process to be different in college, but you were more than prepared to jump right in. Now, as you struggle to fall asleep, you realize that maybe it won’t be as easy to fit in as you thought. The “no one gets me” feeling is creeping into your mind, and you momentarily decide that you don’t need friends, you have Netflix.

And then, the root of the problem hits you: you miss your friends, your life, your home. Being surrounded by people who essentially led the same life as you was so much easier.

If you find yourself wrestling with homesick nostalgia, here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Relax, it’s the first day.

Even if it isn’t the first day- it’s Spring, after all- every day is the first day of your new life.

Change can be difficult: everything that’s not familiar is “weird.” You and all of your classmates are busy getting used to a new environment, and haven’t had the time to plan a meal, let alone an ice-breaking party. Let yourself get settled in before your start freaking out.

2. Your other Friends are probably going through the same thing.

Oftentimes, feeling like you’re the only one that’s having a tough time can turn nostalgia into overwhelming depression. But no matter how many happy-smiling Facebook pictures they post, your high school friends probably miss the old days, too. Reach out to a fellow graduate through Skype, FaceTime or even just a text, and you may surprised at how easily they can relate to your struggles.

Transitions are similar, if not the same for everyone. Take some comfort in that.

3. Embrace Diversity.

Don’t search for a carbon copy of your best friend from high school. If you only surround yourself with people who look, talk, dress and act the same way as you or your friends at home, you’re not only missing out on great friendships, but great learning experiences as well.

4. Don’t Get Caught Up in Stereotypes.

There seems to be a stigma attached to being anything but a traditional resident student, and it causes non-traditional, commuter or transfer students to feel like they can’t make friends outside of their “group.”

The truth: many times, the stigma is in your head. Just make friends.

5. Don’t be a sulker at parties.

Don’t be the one who’s trying to prove that they’re way cooler than everyone else, either. The longest-lasting first impressions are often made at college parties. In the beginning, it’s best to lay low, mingle and be yourself. If you leave your pessimistic feelings and fake persona at the door, you’ll set a positive tone and secure an invite to the next party.

Remember; not checking your phone all night means you won.

6. Dress to impress.

While it’s so tempting to roll out of bed and trudge to class with unbrushed hair, ditching pajama pants for jeans can be a huge confidence boost.

You don’t have to be fashionable, either; no one will judge you for wearing your favorite t-shirt to class. It’s about you: when you feel good, it shows. The most approachable students are the ones that walk into class looking like they’re actually having a good day.

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