Many international students choose to study at UQ in search of a high-quality education surrounded by Brisbane’s beautiful landscapes. However, this journey often comes with the challenge of homesickness – the longing for family, comfort and support of home.
With over 21,000 international students from 141 countries at UQ, experiences of homesickness are as diverse as the students themselves. Four international students have kindly opened up about their journeys and how they found support, connection and communities.
How Junrui from China overcame homesickness
Junrui decided to study a Bachelor of Science because of UQ’s global reputation and beautiful campus. One of the biggest challenges was adjusting to “a different academic style”. Junrui’s advice for adapting is to use UQ’s resources, including going to workshops, asking tutors questions, and learning to manage time more effectively.
Beyond UQ, Junrui found support in the Chinese community in Toowong. He said that student groups and cultural activities really made him feel more at home, carving out a community within Brisbane.
His advice to future students?
“Don’t be afraid to ask for help. UQ has lots of resources. Also, take some time to enjoy Brisbane, join a group, and it will make your life here much more enjoyable.”
How Claudia from Colombia overcame homesickness
Coming from the “coffee and flowers country” of Colombia, Claudia was drawn to Australia by its natural beauty and culture. When Claudia came to UQ, she says her experience was “love at first sight”. The language barrier and making new friends was challenging for Claudia. She admits that she felt very homesick in her first year.
To meet people, Claudia got involved in several university communities. She joined the UQ Latin American Student Association, the Cheer and Dance Club, and participated in mentoring activities. UQ’s vast selection of cultural clubs and activity groups not only helped her connect with fellow Colombians but also introduced her to Australian culture.
Claudia's heartfelt advice:
“You are learning about new places, new people, new cultures, and you don’t want to look back and think 'why didn’t I enjoy that opportunity more?'. So, jump into everything that makes you get out of your comfort zone. You won't regret it.”
How Abhijith from India overcame homesickness
Coming from India to pursue a Master of Economics at UQ, Abhijith’s biggest challenge wasn’t academic; it was finding a job.
To help with this, he turned to networks within UQ. He spoke with alumni, explored alternative career paths and sought peer advice. His advice to incoming students is to "be open to talking to anyone".
Amid these challenges, Abhijith found support in UQ communities. He joined the Association of Postgraduate Students, a student group that felt like "a village where everyone looks out for everyone else".
How James from Hong Kong overcame homesickness
For James, his decision to come to UQ and study a Bachelor of Education (Primary) was inspired by his high school English teacher, a UQ alum whose excellence inspired him to come here. However, intense periods of placements and assignment deadlines often sparked feelings of homesickness.
James highlighted the importance of healthy coping skills.
“I break down tasks into smaller pieces and reward myself, like going for ice cream,” he says.
He encourages embracing these challenges, as “it is OK to fail and reflect and think about how you will improve.”
To stay connected with his cultural identity and passions, James co-founded the UQ Mahjong Society.
“It’s a way for me to interact with people from across Asia and keep playing a game I love.”
James found peace not just through communities but also through solitude and scenery.
“I like the view along the Brisbane River to ease my stress,” he says.
His advice for new students is “don't lose your identity for the sake of fitting in.” Coming to a new country can be difficult and isolating, but UQ is full of opportunities to connect with your culture and embrace new communities. Never fail to be true to yourself; there is always a place for you.
Homesickness is real, but so is strength
Homesickness doesn’t follow a formula. For some, it appears during exams. For others, it hits in quiet moments or during transitional periods. But no matter when or how it shows up, you’re not alone.
What Junrui, Claudia, Abhijith and James show us is that homesickness is a shared experience, but so is the strength they find to fight this feeling. Through friendships, clubs and cultural communities, each student found their own way to navigate living far from home.
So jump in. Connect. You might just find that homesickness can lead you to something unexpected yet rewarding.
Article by Ashley Rolfe, Bachelor of Advanced Humanities
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