Colleges in Northern Ontario Combat Homesickness for New Students

As students transition to college and university life in northern Ontario, many are grappling with homesickness for the first time. The emotional strain of being away from home can significantly impact their well-being and academic performance. According to Sue Tassé, manager of clinical services at the Canadian Mental Health Association’s Sudbury-Manitoulin branch, the excitement of starting anew is often accompanied by unexpected feelings of sadness and anxiety.

Tassé describes homesickness as an “emotional imbalance” that manifests in various ways, such as irritability, lack of motivation, and shifts in sleep and eating habits. For students, particularly those from international and Indigenous backgrounds, the journey involves additional challenges, including cultural adjustments and the financial burden of traveling home.

Social pressures can compound these feelings, making it essential for institutions to create supportive environments. Tassé emphasizes the need to destigmatize homesickness, encouraging students to seek help from friends, family, or campus mental health resources.

Support Initiatives Across Campuses

With thousands of students beginning their academic year, colleges and universities in northern Ontario are proactively addressing homesickness through tailored support programs.

At Lakehead University, located in Thunder Bay and Orillia, student engagement coordinator Krista McAllister notes that both Indigenous and international students often face culture shock. To aid in their transition, Lakehead offers pre-arrival webinars covering essential topics from study permits to housing. Additionally, the university organizes social events such as board game nights and movie screenings, fostering connections among students. An international student lounge equipped with recreational activities serves as an informal gathering space.

In Sudbury, Laurentian University faces unique challenges due to its campus isolation. According to Sarah Humphries, manager of student success, new students often feel overwhelmed by the logistics of navigating public transport. To facilitate this adjustment, Laurentian provides transit resources during orientation and has established peer-led programs that emphasize academics, wellness, and campus life. Each peer group includes both international and domestic students, promoting shared experiences and understanding.

At Nipissing University in North Bay, assistant vice-president Sarah Taylor highlights the institution’s commitment to supporting diverse identities. The Indigenous initiatives office offers cultural resources, while the international office hosts engaging events like skating lessons with the varsity hockey team. Taylor emphasizes the shared responsibility of faculty and staff to create an inclusive environment, exemplified by initiatives such as the “More the Merrier” event during winter break. This program pairs students who remain on campus over the holidays with local families to celebrate together, alleviating feelings of isolation.

Cambrian College in Sudbury employs a proactive approach to support international students. According to Ekin Marks, international recruitment manager, pre-departure sessions prepare students for life in Canada, covering essential topics such as cultural expectations and local services. Upon arrival, students participate in an orientation that includes a community services fair, accessing vital resources like banking and healthcare. The college also promotes peer-to-peer support via the Talk Campus app, and cultural celebrations such as Diwali and Lunar New Year are integrated into campus life to enhance community bonding.

Comprehensive Support Systems

Collège Boréal emphasizes transitional programs to assist students. Director of student services Josée Gervais mentions that the college offers webinars on practical matters like housing and budgeting. For Indigenous students, access to an elder and culturally relevant resources are crucial. Gervais notes that shared kitchens and diverse meal options in campus cafeterias help students feel more at home. Special holiday meals are organized during winter break to foster a sense of belonging among students who may not celebrate with their families.

At Algoma University in Sault Ste. Marie, the approach encompasses a four-phase strategy: pre-arrival sessions, orientation, ongoing support, and strong alumni connections. Dave Trudell, associate vice-president of student affairs, explains that addressing homesickness is part of a broader effort to provide comprehensive support. This includes extensive orientation programming, academic advising, and cultural events that integrate Indigenous practices into campus life. Activities such as soup and bannock lunches and powwows aim to create a welcoming environment for all students.

As the academic year progresses, it is evident that northern Ontario colleges and universities are dedicated to helping students navigate the emotional challenges of homesickness. By fostering connection and community, these institutions are not only aiding in the transition to university life but also laying the groundwork for lasting relationships and academic success.