Home away from home: how to support your international friends during the Covid -19 Lockdown

International students take a leap of faith when leaving their homes to learn and pursue their lifelong ambitions. It's a mentally exhausting phase for most, and it's even worse with the situation over the coronavirus.

Most international students have not had the opportunity to go back home during the previous lockdown. Now some may not be able to go back for the holidays either.

Here are a few ways to support your flatmates and bring home to them during this unprecedented time.

Cook together: It can be a simple home-cooked meal- a cultural signature dish or meal that makes you'll think of home. Have every flatmate join in, cook, and dine together. Not only will curb the festive homesickness, but it'll also be a way for the entire flat to bond!

Decorate your flat together: There's no better way to get into the festive mood than by making your surroundings look more 'Christmassy'. Have a budget and split it among the household. Hit a few stores (order online) and dazzle up your rooms. You don't have to break the bank by splurging on decorations (we're all financially struggling students, after all). Just put up a small tree, throw some garlands and candles around, and your good to go!

Bake cookies: Don't want to cook (or rather you can't), bake some treats instead. There are super simple recipes online, and you can even make it even more fun by turning it into a contest. If you're allowed to - make extras and share them around your accommodation.

Get to know each other's family: This is the best time to make the most of getting to know your flatmates' family. We can't physically be with them, but just talking and seeing each other can suffice. Have a joint Zoom call with your friends/family and the entire flat. It's also an excellent way to learn about one another rather than just waiting until graduation to meet each other.

Enjoy a movie session: Throw some blankets and pillows in your living room, make some hot chocolate, or order in some takeaway and enjoy a movie marathon. It's a great distraction from feeling homesick.

These times are hard for every student, but remember, it's harder for those who are miles away from home. Be empathetic towards one another and make the most of the situation without any regrets.

Take care, and stay safe.♥️

Edited by Pia Cooper