I Never Thought: I'd Be Homesick

By Alicia Jaimes

August 2014.
My parents just dropped me off at my room. The room was small, cluttered and unfamiliar. We said “I love you”s and hugged goodbye and even though I lived 45 minutes away, I was overwhelmed with a feeling of sadness and the feeling that something was changing.
This was my first step towards adulthood.
I was living on my own. Free to do whatever I wish. The world was my oyster.
So, about five minutes later, I called my parents.

I never thought I'd be the kind of person who'd be homesick. Whenever I imagined my future, I thought I'd be successfully living on my own with roommates who’d become my best friends and we’d create multiple video montages of us living the college life. I was certain I'd hit the ground running, but instead, I stumbled.

Living away from home that first year made me realize how much I took for granted. I'd go to make cereal and remember I didn't buy any milk. I'd cut my finger and realize this bathroom didn't come with any band aids.
*When in a pickle, I recommend toilet paper and tape **P.s. Remember to buy tape**
Life was hard and I found myself calling home a lot and glued to my phone texting my family between classes. I locked myself in my room and was content with it. Looking back, I may have done things differently.

Don't get me wrong, I think it's healthy to have a relationship with your family and you should call them when you miss them. Just maybe not two or three times a day.
College is intimidating. Living “on your own” is intimidating, but that's what make experiences worth it. To know that you were scared, yet you leapt anyways.
I'm not saying freeze out your family. They miss you too, but just know that they aren't going anywhere. They'll be there when you come home on the weekends or when you invite them to lunch on campus. Don't be afraid to text or call them when you get an A on the test you were dreading, but don't be afraid to miss them.
Experience these four years.
Go to the home games.
Accept the invitation from your roommates to go out to dinner and get to know each other.
Hit the gym.
Make friends.
Watch a theater production.
Even if you aren't sure you'll like it, try it. It may not be the best, but at least you will leave college saying you've gotten all that you could out of it.
Homesick? Create a home away from home.
This is your time. Embrace it.

Room necessities for the everyday freshman:
First Aid Kit
Trash Bags
Can opener (and other utensils)
Q-Tips
Nail Clippers
Quarters
Aspirin (and other medicines)
Detergent
Cups and plates (and pots and pans)
Dishwashing Liquid (or pods)
Umbrella
Electronics Chargers

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