How to make adapting to your new environment easier

For most students, coming to university is the moment when you start living on your own for the first time. This can be really fun and many students enjoy the independence, but also pretty stressful and might make you miss home. However, there are things you can do to make adapting to your new environment much easier.

Don't be scared to mingle

Isolating yourself is probably the worst thing you can do when you’re feeling homesick. People are social creatures and, while it may be daunting, talking to other people who are in the same boat will make you feel less lonely. Everyone’s getting to know new people (especially during freshers), so don’t be afraid to approach someone and introduce yourself.

Decorate

Make your room a reflection of who you are. Decorate however you’d like. Don’t forget to put up pictures of your favourite people, be it family, friends or your dog, to make it feel more like home.

Take at a look at our 5 ways to make your room feel like home for inspiration. 

Keep in touch

Being in regular contact with your family and friends can help alleviate the feeling of homesickness. Set time aside at least once a week to talk to your family so that you can keep each other updated and you don’t feel like you’re missing out by not being there physically.

Keep yourself busy

If you find yourself only thinking about how much you miss home, you’ll never fully experience university. Keep your mind busy by joining a society, exercising or try out a new hobby. The mind tends to wander when it’s unoccupied, and while that may be useful when you’re trying to relax, that can leave room for unwanted thoughts and feelings. It might be difficult at first, but they will disappear soon.

Let us know!

The residence life team is here to help you to settle into university life. We run a wide variety of events (check out our Wellbeing Wednesdays) and activities in halls throughout the whole year. Come along and get involved! Chat to your Residential Advisers and let us know if you’re struggling, our team can help to ease your transition into student life and give you useful advice to make things more comfortable.

If you find yourself struggling, there are plenty of options available on campus, don't be afraid to ask for help.