Homesickness

Dealing with homesickness

Living and studying in a different country can be a great experience, but it will take some time to adjust to the changes of the country that you have landed in. You may feel frustrated, lonely or homesick. This is normal.

However, there are several things that can help you through this adjustment period.

• Stay positive and talk to others who have experienced the same feelings
• Keeping a journal will hekp you understand your feelings
• Stay active by finding a hobby or joining a sporting team to fill in your spare time
• Isolation and loneliness can be reduced when making friends with other international and Australia students
• Be prepared to have to adapt to a different environment and culture
• If you don’t understand what people are saying, ask them to explain
• Understand that Australian’s may not know much about your culture, you may have to explain certain aspects of your culture to them, including food preparation and religious and culture customs, etc
• Remember, as your time in Australia passes you will get comfortable with the culture, some aspects you will not like and some we hope you will
• If there is something that you don’t understand about the culture or you are not sure what the correct thing to say or do is, then just ask, Australian’s are kind, friendly and approachable.