Handling Homesickness

Hit Patel Headshot
by Hit Patel, MS Electrical and Computer Engineering.

Being an international student is exciting, but homesickness? Not so much. For me, coming all the way from Ahmedabad, Gujarat in India to study Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University at Albany was a thrilling leap. I chose UAlbany for its tech-savvy programs and cultural diversity—it felt like the perfect fit for my engineering and embedded systems aspirations. But no matter how amazing the opportunity, homesickness hit me like a surprise pop quiz. I miss Mom, Dad, and all the glorious food of Ahmedabad! From street food to international cuisines, I miss those Sunday brunches after a morning walk, or late-night coffee hangouts with friends. Honestly, the cravings for home food sometimes get so real, I wonder if I should start a 'Best of Ahmedabad Food' tour on campus. Spoiler: no restaurant quite hits the spot!

Luckily, I’ve found a few ways to make Albany feel a bit more like home. Here is what has helped me:

  1. Explore the Outdoors: Albany has some amazing parks. Whether it’s a jog or a peaceful stroll, it’s the perfect way to clear your mind. Plus, fresh air beats sitting in your room feeling nostalgic.
  2. Celebrate Festivals: UAlbany celebrates everything from Diwali to Thanksgiving with equal enthusiasm. Joining in makes you feel connected, and suddenly, you don’t feel so far away from home. Who knew you could celebrate Holi in New York?
  3. Join a Club: My lifesaver! UAlbany has clubs for everyone, including the Indian Student Organization, which brings a piece of home to campus with every event. Trust me, nothing beats the feeling of dancing to Bollywood tunes at an Indian festival in the middle of Albany!

Sure, the time difference can be challenging, but a quick 15-minute video call with my family or friends works wonders for my mood. You’ll be surprised how much catching up with loved ones can boost your spirit and keep you going when you feel a little lost.

Nothing quite replaces home, but I’ve found my happy place in Washington Park. Whether it’s chilling by the lake with friends or catching a free concert at the Amphitheatre, it’s the perfect spot to relax and recharge. It might not be Ahmedabad, but it’s a close second.