Beginning the year at a completely new school is an exciting, yet terrifying, experience as a freshman in college. A perfectly normal phase for freshman is the wave of homesickness they feel as they enter a different, supposedly more grown up world than the safe environment of high school.

Not to worry though. As unique as that homesickness feels, millions of other students are going through a similar process. An essential part of growing up is learning to live away from parents and becoming independent individuals. As difficult as that may be at first, everyone finds a way to get past missing home sooner or later.

Talking to upperclassmen has really helped some students get through the first few weeks and find their niche here at AU. Older students have the advantage of already conquering homesickness and learning time management skills which can be useful when getting into the swing of college life.

O-Teamers and Accent on Success classes were implemented with the purpose of better acquainting freshman to the campus so that no time is wasted on being late or feeling lost.

The nice thing about going to a smaller, private university is that each and every person on campus has some kind of connection to all the other students and faculty. Meeting people on campus will increase your likelihood of feeling comfortable in a new educational setting.

A tool students have found extremely beneficial in catching up with friends and family from home is Skype. Sharing what’s going on at school is interesting to parents – you are not going to bore them simply by saying hello.

Ashland University is a prime example of places to easily get involved at school. It’s important to immerse yourself in the college experience by joining different clubs, merely attending informational meetings, finding an interesting volunteer service or visiting the rec center. The most productive students are also the busiest. Moping around in your dorm or going home every weekend is cheating yourself out of college life. If you’re having any difficulty finding a place you belong at school, keep an eye on bulletin boards, read your school e-mails, and just ask around.

Freshman Byron Reyna-Corzo explained how he started over at a new school and how he keeps himself busy. He’s involved in the Campus Activity Board, writes for the Collegian and plays club volleyball and basketball.

“(Being involved) helps keep my mind off things I’m missing out on at home, like my sister growing up,” Reyna-Corzo said.

If necessary, counselors are available to help students adjust to living on campus and create new friendships. Remember to be patient with homesick students because they’re just having a little more trouble making the transition into living at a new school. Help them get involved. College should be an enjoyable experience for all students.