By Ariana Ten
In Lefke, many international students sit in their dorm rooms in the evenings, looking through old photos of home, reminiscing about their parents’ hugs and the delicious smell of home-cooked meals.
For many international students, studying abroad begins as a dream – a new country, new opportunities and a fresh start. But behind the excitement, there is often a quieter, more personal story: the journey from homesickness to belonging.
Arriving in a place like Lefke can feel overwhelming at first. The streets are unfamiliar, the language may be different and everything feels new. For many students at Lefke European University , the first weeks are the hardest.
“I remember feeling completely alone,” said Hana Bouhtit 3rd course faculty of tourism and hotel management . “Even though there were people around me, I missed my home, my family and everything that felt familiar.” said Artur Artemyev 3rd course faculty of business and administration.
Homesickness is something almost every international student experiences. It can bring feelings of sadness, isolation and even anxiety. For some, it affects their motivation and daily life.
However, over time, things begin to change.
Friendships slowly form – in classrooms, dormitories and shared experiences. Small routines become comforting. Familiar faces start to replace the feeling of being lost.
Going home during holidays helps students recharge emotionally, making it easier to return with a fresh perspective.
Eventually, what once felt foreign begins to feel familiar. Lefke becomes more than just a place of study – it becomes a second home.
Studying abroad is not only about education. It is a journey of emotional growth, resilience, and self-discovery. And for many students, it is this journey that shapes who they become.
