In my last blog, I talked about one of the funny things I had to adjust to while studying at Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC) in the United States — all the acronyms people use in everyday conversations and texts. But adjusting to life as an international student comes with more than just learning new expressions.

Sometimes, the hardest part isn’t understanding the language or the culture.

Sometimes, it’s missing home.

I’m not gonna lie… I miss home

I’ve been telling you guys about fun experiences and things I’ve tried and learned here. But something that’s not talked about enough is how much you miss home during your time as an international student. When I was on a work and travel visa it was all fun and games, 4 months living the American life and then dreading going back home until I had to be back. As an F1 international student everything is completely different.

Sometimes you just miss your mom’s food or the smell of your grandma’s house. You feel like nobody understands until you look around and realize a lot more people understand than you think. Home sickness can hit you hard and it hits in moments when you least expect it. It can be on the drive back to your house from school, or while hanging out with your friends, sometimes I’m just having fun and my head just says “man I really miss home”.

How I Deal with Homesickness

But, most of these times when I get homesick I remember why I am here in the first place. I call my mom and then she makes my whole family join, or I blast Peruvian music in the car to feel a little closer to home, and man I wish I knew how to cook but honestly the Peruvian restaurant does just fine.

“Cumple tus sueños” my mom always reminds me that this is my dream, and that I am here for a reason, I can’t give up for a little homesickness, we can’t give up.

Finding Support Along the Way

Along the way you will meet people that will not make the feeling disappear but will definitely make it much easier. And if you really think about it, homesickness is just a reminder of all the love and great things you have waiting for you back home.

Share with your friends, live the experience, cry if you need to, call your mom, or your sister, or your grandma, blast music that reminds you of home, show other people your culture, but most importantly have fun and enjoy this chapter of your life.

I know I am, and I would not change it for the world.

Danna Iguchi is an international student from Peru studying at Truckee Meadows Community College, Reno, Nevada.