Navigating Homesickness: Adjusting to Life Away from Home

Beginning your university life can be daunting, especially as an international student. New country, new faces, and new experiences can all be overwhelming in the first few months. That was me two years ago; I had just moved from Oman, navigating how to be independent for the first time and not knowing where to start.      
If you can relate to any of this, well, don't worry. Here are a few tips on how to adjust to your new life here in Dubai.

Making Friends

If you think making friends at uni is intimidating, think about it this way: everyone here is new and in the same boat as you! Middlesex University (MDX) Dubai hosts a bunch of activities every week to encourage meeting new friends. And don't worry about going alone; everyone is here to socialise and meet new people.

If you live in the dorms, The Myriad hosts monthly events with fun activities, from watching movies to BBQ parties to exciting workshops. Or just hang around in the common areas like activity rooms, kitchen, and arcade. P.S. the kitchen is where I made most of my friends! There's something for everyone!

And if you're an introvert like me, don't keep all your hopes in an extrovert adopting you. It's important to take the first steps yourself by attending events, socialising and participating in them. How is an extrovert going to find you otherwise? It is also important to choose the right group of friends who will uplift you and motivate you.

Keeping in touch with your family back home

Homesickness is a very real thing that all of us international students go through but might not want to necessarily admit. I remember after moving to the dorms, I convinced myself that everything was fine and going well. But after a week, when I met my aunt, the joy of seeing a familiar face had me bawling my eyes out in the middle of the road.      
It's very normal to feel scared, lonely, and forgotten, but as someone who has been there, I promise you, that feeling will go away really soon. In moments like these, it's very important to talk to someone. It's best to call your family or friends from back home every day/ week by allowing a specific time so that you have something to look forward to.

Explore!

One of the easiest and most efficient ways to adjust is to explore! Dubai offers a wide array of activities and events that are both free and paid! The dorms also provide complimentary bus rides to places other than the university on the weekends. So, hit the beach, explore new cuisines, or join a free workshop!

But if you are a homebody, I would suggest starting a new hobby! There are a bunch of beginner-friendly kits you can find on Amazon that will keep you occupied and stimulated. If none of these seem like something you want to do, start a gym routine, visit the library, or explore the arcade room in Myriad. Having a daily schedule, or something you can look forward to every day can help you be productive and active.

A significant change like moving to a new country can affect your mental health, which means it is very easy to slip into a negative mindset and have depressive thoughts. Hence, it is crucial, above all, to take care of yourself first. Go for walks, take breaks, and practice mindfulness. If you are struggling, don't hesitate to reach out to our counsellors, who are ready to help and support you through this journey.

I hope you can implement these suggestions into your life, and I am so excited for you to embark on your fun-filled university life at MDX Dubai.