Studying English in London is a chance of a lifetime. You’re going to be immersed in the English language and taught by experienced native-speaking teachers. There’ll be new friends to make, new things to see and plenty of exciting things to do.
You’ll be surrounded by iconic historical buildings, and have access to some of the world’s finest museums and galleries. You’ll be able to shop till you drop in department stores, bohemian boutiques and lively local markets, and enjoy cool clubs, cracking concerts, thrilling theatres, delightful dances and fascinating films.But whilst staying away from home in a foreign speaking country is a thrilling prospect, it can also be a frightening one. How will you feel being away from your favourite foods, your family, your friends and everything that’s familiar? It’s all very well being in an exciting new place, but what if you feel so homesick you can’t enjoy it?
If you’re thinking of studying English in London, it’s worthwhile considering how you can get the very most out of the experience, including ensuring homesickness isn’t a problem.
Understanding homesickness
Homesickness is distress caused by separation from home. It’s characterised by preoccupying thoughts of home and things that remind us of home. There’s a longing for, and an intense sense of loss of, all that is familiar and secure: family and friends, places, and routines.
According to the experts, homesickness is something that affects us all at some point in our lives. It’s estimated that between 50-70% of all university students will experience a strong sense of homesickness as they adjust to their new life, living arrangements and course.