Finding Belonging: Navigating Homesickness and Connection at SDSU

Starting college is an exciting new chapter, but it can also bring feelings of homesickness and uncertainty about where you belong. In this episode of State of Wellbeing, Chief Wellness Officer Shari Landmark sits down with SDSU counselors Autumn Garr and Julia Walker to talk about belonging, connection, and the realities of homesickness. Together, they share insights from their work with students, debunk common misconceptions, and offer practical tools for navigating loneliness and building community on campus. From exploring campus resources to discovering your own strengths, this conversation reminds every Jackrabbit that you are not alone—and that you truly belong here.   Learning Objectives: 1. Define the concepts of belonging and homesickness in the context of the college experience. 2. Recognize common signs that a student may be struggline with homesickness or disconnection. 3. Identify misconceptions about homesickness and belonging that can create barriers to wellbeing. 4. Apply practical coping strategies and campus resources to support a greater sense of connection and belonging.   Processing Questions: 1. How do you personally define “belonging,” and in what ways does that align (or differ) from the ideas shared in the episode? 2. The counselors mentioned that homesickness can look different for everyone. How have you experienced or observed this in yourself or others? 3. Which coping strategies or campus resources mentioned in the episode feel most accessible or useful to you right now? 4. The episode emphasized the role of self-acceptance in belonging. What are some ways you can practice greater self-acceptance in your own life? 5. What small step can you commit to this week to strengthen your sense of belonging?