Moving abroad to study is one of the biggest and most exciting steps of your life. New country, new people, new lifestyle, it’s a fresh start.
But with all that excitement also comes one very real challenge many students are not prepared for:
Homesickness.
Almost every international student experiences it, even the confident ones. And that’s okay. Homesickness doesn’t mean you’re weak; it means you’re human.
Here’s a guide to help you understand and manage homesickness while building a happy, fulfilling life in the UK.
Why Homesickness Happens
Homesickness comes from:
- Being far from family and familiar faces
- Adjusting to a new culture and weather
- Missing Nigerian food, lifestyle, and rhythm
- Feeling alone in a new environment
- Navigating school responsibilities on your own
Good news? It gets better with time and there are proven ways to make the transition easier.
- Create a Routine Early
Your first few weeks set the tone for your entire experience.
A routine helps your mind feel safe and grounded. Try:
- A set wake-up time
- A class schedule
- Daily study hours
- A gym or walk routine
- Meals at regular times
Your brain adapts faster when your days are structured.
2. Stay Connected with Loved Ones, But Not Too Much
Regular calls home can give you comfort and emotional support. But calling every hour can make the homesickness worse.
Try:
- A daily check-in
- A video call schedule
- Sharing updates and photos
Stay connected, but give yourself space to adjust to your new life.
3. Make Your Room Feel Like Home
Your room is your safe space. Decorate it with items that make you feel grounded:
- Photos of family and friends
- Small décor in your favourite colours
- A warm duvet
- LED lights
- Scented candles (or diffusers if candles aren’t allowed)
When your room feels cosy, your emotions settle.
4. Find Your Community
Nothing beats meeting people who understand your culture.
Look for:
- Student societies
- African Christian fellowships
- Afrobeat parties and events
- Local restaurants
- Whatsapp/Telegram groups for your country people in your city
Having people who “get it” makes the transition smoother.
5. Explore the City
The more you stay inside, the worse homesickness feels. Get out and explore:
- Cafés
- Libraries
- Museums
- Parks
- Student events
- Free city tours
When you get to know your environment, it stops feeling strange.
6. Cook (or Find) Food
Food is emotional. A single plate of jollof can bring comfort.
Options include:
- Cooking your favourite meals
- Visiting African stores
- Trying West African restaurants around town
This reconnects you to home in the best way.
7. Talk to Someone
Most universities offer:
- Free counselling
- Wellbeing officers
- International student support
- Mental health workshops
Talking helps. Going through it silently makes it heavier.
8. Keep Yourself Busy with Activities
The more engaged you are, the quicker you adjust.
Try joining:
- Clubs and societies
- Sports groups
- Volunteer programs
- Student associations
- Part-time work (if allowed)
You’ll meet people, learn new skills, and feel like you belong.
9. Give Yourself Time
Homesickness doesn’t go away overnight. Some students settle in a week, others after months.
Be patient.
Be kind to yourself.
Celebrate small wins.
You’re building a new life and that takes courage.
Moving abroad is a brave step, but you’re not alone. Every International student in the UK has felt what you’re feeling and they overcame it.
With time, routine, the right community, and emotional support, the UK will begin to feel like your second home.
At EN Global Education, we support students before and after they travel, ensuring their journey is smooth, emotionally balanced, and successful.
