Like most colleges and universities across the nation, NC State has a lot of students who are away from home, whether home is an hour’s drive or a plane ride away. Sometimes students miss their families and feel homesick. It’s common for students to feel this way no matter how many times they’ve been away from home, and it can happen at any time during the academic year. Here are some ways you can help your student deal with homesickness.  

Send your student a care package or gift that reminds them of home. It’s a great way for your student to feel connected, supported, and excited to share those treats with their friends. If you would like to mail a care package to your student in one of the residence halls, please click here for mailing instructions.  

Many students say that NC State feels like a second home, and the diversity of people on campus makes them feel less homesick, but for those struggling wth homesickness, getting involved on campus is one of the best ways to cope with homesickness. Encourage your student to go to club meetings and form friendships in shared spaces in the Talley Student Union Center. There are different types of communities that range from the LGBTQ Pride Center to the Women’s Center. If you haven’t, please direct your student to the Student Leadership and Engagement website for a listing of student organizations on campus. I found that going to my improv club practice meetings was fun, and I made tons of friends through the group’s events.

Additionally, a quick check-in and encouraging other family members to connect with your student can also help your student to cope with homesickness. Normalizing homesickness and encouraging your student throughout the semester can boost their college experience.

I personally text my mom when I have free time and call her every weekend. The most important thing is to remind your student that NC State offers several resources, including counseling services for students feeling homesick. The university community is here for them and their home can be anywhere with the people they love. 

Karishma Kate Pearson, Parent Family Ally (PFA)

GO PACK!