Homesick, Who?

First-year students at Elon University have ample opportunities to go home for breaks throughout the first semester. With chances in September, October, November, and December to see their parents or go home, freshmen are less likely to experience homesickness. 

Claire Vacca is a current freshman living in West. She is from Massachusetts and likes knowing she can see her family frequently throughout the first semester. 

"I think it's a good system because right when you're getting here, it's this huge transition," Vacca said. "So, seeing my mom for parent's weekend and then knowing I will again two weeks later for fall break helps me not feel homesick." 

While opportunities to travel home are abundant during the first semester, the same cannot be said for the second semester. With a short break at the end of the winter term and another break not until March, chances to visit home become harder. 

Vacca said she believes by staying busy, any feelings of homesickness will disappear by the time the second semester rolls around. 

"By second semester I'll be joining things and have my core friend group, so I don't think I'll need to see my parents as much," Vacca said. 

Freshmen certainly take advantage of the breaks at the beginning of the school year; they’re a good way to ease into living away from home. 

"I'm planning on going home for every break," Vacca said. "At least for this first year and then maybe not." 

Next time you find yourself missing home, just remember a break is no more than a month away. Take advantage of visiting home while the transition is still new, and soon enough, you won't be wanting to leave.