How Staying Connected With Family in College Helped Me Beat Homesickness and Strengthen Our Bond

Starting college was one of the biggest milestones in my life—a new city, unfamiliar faces, and the excitement of independence that I’d dreamed about for years. I’m 2 month's in and it’s finally hitting me, I’m missing my mom’s chilaquiles in the morning, mole, abuelitas arroz con leche and missing out on taquizas at family parties.

For me, as a Latina, my family isn’t just important—it’s everything. The idea of “la familia” is central to how I was raised. We would spent holidays together, go camping throughout the year together and ate dinner together where we laugh, argue, and talk about life.

In college with a lot of strangers and learning different cultures, I realized how crucial it was to stay connected with my siblings and loved ones. A simple text to my sister, a goofy selfie exchange with my little sister, or calling my parents just to ask for things when they come to see me—those moments are like little anchors, reminders that I wasn’t alone in figuring out this new chapter. It wasn’t just about updating each other or checking in. It was about making sure that, even as we grew and changed, that bond stayed strong.

The calls with my abuelitos is the ones I treasure the most. The advice they give me, love and support means a lot to me. Sometimes they barely understood the college jargon, and honestly, neither did I. But hearing my abuelita’s voice telling me she was proud, or my abuelito reminding me to “comer bien” and not slack on my studies made all the difference. I could feel my stress melt away, replaced by comfort and confidence. Talking to them reminded me of the roots I came from and the sacrifices they made so I could have this opportunity.

Staying in touch with family didn’t just help with homesickness—it made me realize how much I valued those relationships. I started appreciating my siblings’ advice more, cherishing my parents’ constant support, and treasuring time with my grandparents. Those conversations kept the loneliness at bay and made the bond between us stronger. College isn’t just about finding yourself; it’s about holding on to where you came from. If you ever find yourself struggling in college, pick up the phone or join a student organization if you’re not too close with family. It’s the best cure for homesickness and the fuel you need to keep growing, learning, and thriving.