Student Ambassador Thu Bui shares her personal journey of navigating homesickness while studying in Ireland. From building new connections to finding comfort in cultural traditions, Thu opens up about her experience and how she turned challenges into growth.
Acknowledging and Understanding Homesickness
Being an international student in Ireland has been an incredible adventure, filled with moments of excitement, discovery, and yes, homesickness. When I first arrived, the feeling of missing home hit me hard. The first two weeks were especially tough as I struggled with the absence of familiar faces, the comforting taste of Vietnamese cuisine, and the hustle and bustle of street life back in my homeland.
The cultural differences seemed daunting at first. Ireland had its own rhythm, its own way of life that felt unfamiliar and, at times, isolating. The language barrier added another layer of complexity, with various accents making it difficult to fully understand and connect with those around me. I found myself retreating into a shell, preferring the solace of video calls with loved ones over venturing out to explore my new surroundings.
Adaptation Strategies and Support Systems
But as time passed, things began to change. I slowly started to build connections with fellow international students and locals alike. Through these newfound friendships, I discovered the beauty of cultural exchange and the joy of learning from others. I found myself eagerly soaking up new languages, customs, and traditions, and in turn, sharing snippets of my own culture with those around me.
Homesickness, I learned, is a persistent companion. It can rear its head unexpectedly, reminding you of the distance between you and the place you once called home. Yet, over time, I developed coping strategies that helped me navigate these moments of longing and turn them into sources of motivation.
First and foremost, building a support network within the university community proved invaluable. Whether it was bonding over shared experiences with fellow international students or seeking guidance from compassionate faculty members, a support system made all the difference. These connections not only eased the loneliness but also provided opportunities for cultural exchange and mutual learning.
Sending photos and videos of my adventures in Ireland to my family back home became a cherished ritual. It was a way to bridge the distance, to share moments of joy and discovery with those I missed dearly. Cooking traditional dishes from Vietnam and celebrating Lunar New Year with the Vietnamese community in Ireland provided comfort and a sense of connection to my roots, while engaging in university clubs and activities offered welcome distractions and opportunities for personal growth. 
And when the weight of homesickness felt too heavy to bear, I sought professional support. The university’s counselling services provided a safe space to express my feelings and receive guidance on how to cope with the challenges of living abroad. These resources reminded me that I was not alone and that it was okay to ask for help when needed.
Today, as I reflect on my journey, I’m filled with gratitude for the resilience that homesickness has helped me cultivate. Overcoming the initial struggles has allowed me to fully embrace life in Ireland, savour its beauty, and revel in its rich culture and traditions. I’ve learned to appreciate the little moments, whether it’s sipping Guinness with friends or marveling at the graceful movements of Irish dancers.
Homesickness, I’ve come to realise, is a reflection of the depth of our connections and the love we hold for those we cherish. While it may never fully disappear, it no longer holds the power to overshadow the excitement, curiosity, and wonder that define my new life abroad. With resilience as my guide, I look forward to the adventures that lie ahead, confident in my ability to navigate whatever challenges may come my way.
Thu Bui is studying Finance at Maynooth University via Education in Ireland