Dear First-Year Boilermaker,
We know that despite all of the new adventures and excitement you’re experiencing, college can be lonely sometimes. People often come to campus expecting their first year will be nothing but fun. However, it’s typically harder than that.
Going to college and being truly independent is a big adjustment that comes with many unexpected changes. This can leave you feeling a little homesick, sad, isolated and disconnected from others.
But you can take comfort in knowing it’s all normal. In fact, almost all new college students experience these emotions in one way or another. So, how can you finish the semester strong despite these big adjustments?
Dealing with feelings of loneliness in college
- Meet new people. Try to switch things up by striking up a conversation with people near you — maybe it’s someone in your residence hall or a lab partner. If you don’t know what to say, ask about an upcoming assignment or how they like their major. Simple conversations like this can help you get to know people and find friends that have things in common with you.
- Get involved. At Purdue, there are so many clubs and organizations with people who share your interests. Take some time to reflect on activities you enjoy or extracurriculars you may like to pursue, then get involved through BoilerLink.
- Call someone you feel comfortable with. You can alleviate feelings of loneliness by staying connected with your loved ones. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider calling someone you love who will help cheer you up. Hearing their voice can help you feel less alone and allow you to share a more intimate connection.
- Seek help. If feelings of loneliness don’t seem to get better after trying these ideas or it’s beginning to interfere with your daily life, consider reaching out to a healthcare or mental health professional. Advocacy and support programs on campus can also help you navigate this transition.
3 tips for coping with homesickness
- Know that your feelings are normal. It’s important to realize that many other students are going through similar struggles. Dealing with the feelings by yourself can feel even more isolating. Talking about your feelings with others can make it easier to cope.
- Take small steps to become more involved. Though it may feel more comfortable to stay in your room when you’re feeling down or anxious, doing so can continue to make you feel alone or isolated. Getting out and doing things — even just getting outdoors for a walk — does a lot to lift feelings of sadness or depression. It will also give you a chance to meet others and get involved on campus. There are so many ways to get involved at Purdue. Explore the involvement resources available to you, and look for opportunities to step out of your comfort zone.
- Seek help. Make use of campus resources and staff who are there to help. Ask your academic advisor or your instructors where you can go for assistance, whether you need recommendations for ways to get involved on campus, or more serious support. Learn about advocacy and support resources on campus that help with students’ emotional and mental health, and reach out to them if you've been struggling.
Mark your calendars! 📆
- October and beyond – Still considering where to live next semester? Review off-campus housing options here .
- Nov. 14 – The Purdue community is invited to a free performance called "The Price of Progress," an entertaining multimedia theatrical experience that tells the Indiana Avenue/IUPUI story. The event, which takes place in Fowler Hall, will begin at 6:30 p.m., with doors opening at 6 p.m.
- Nov. 22-25 – Thanksgiving Break (no classes)
View the complete academic calendar , or check out this schedule of on-campus activities.
Let us know if you need help or have questions! You can also access previous emails featuring new student tips on the Orientation Programs website . Purdue Orientation Programs |