If you have heard Michael Buble’s Home, you will understand what this blog is about. These past couple weeks have been full of ups and downs. I am now just settling into a routine and trying to keep my living space clean. I go to campus every day except for Monday, which is when I do my laundry.
This summer throughout the preparation process, I was looking forward to being in a new country and never considered myself to be the type to feel homesick. I enjoy meeting new people and exploring new places. I have so much opportunity to travel, but also take adventures around Greece.
I feel homesickness hits me especially right before bed. I have a good friend who I talk to almost every night. She shares her story from campus, we talk Hawkeye football and give each other encouraging words when we need them!
As I previously stated in my other blog post, different emotions affect people at different times. My advice to a potential study abroad student is to not ignore your feelings but talk them out with a trusted friend or your RA. Taking care of yourself mentally, emotionally, and physically is what is important especially when abroad.
I learned one of the best things one can do is surround themselves with a genuine group of friends. When I am in the company of genuine friends it does not matter what you are doing. My favorite activities include exploring the city and eating at new restaurants or having friends over for a girl’s night. No, I am not the best cook, but it is about the conversation and company.
The whole point is trying to make this your “home away from home.” Listen to the interesting sounds around you. Be in the present. Like they say, Home is not a place, it’s a feeling!
Tia Dacquisto is an international relations major at the University of Iowa. She will be spending the academic year in northern Greece at the American College of Thessaloniki.
Student blog entries posted to this International Accents page may not reflect the opinions and recommendations of UI Study Abroad and International Programs. The blog is intended to give students a forum for free expression of thoughts and experiences abroad in a respectful space.