Study Abroad in UK: How to Stay Connected with Family Back Home

Shivaji

31 Jan 2025 — 9 min read

Studying abroad is one of the most exciting and transformative experiences you'll ever have. The opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture, explore diverse landscapes, and get an education from world-renowned universities is unparalleled. However, it’s natural to feel a bit disconnected from home during this adventure. Whether you’re in London, Edinburgh, or anywhere in the UK, maintaining strong ties with family is important for your mental well-being and overall experience.

In this post, we’ll explore various ways you can stay connected with your loved ones back home, no matter the distance. From leveraging technology to setting up routines and balancing independence, we’ll dive into everything you need to know to feel close to your family while studying abroad in the UK.

The Benefits of Staying Connected with Family

Before we get into the "how," let's talk about the "why." Staying in touch with your family isn’t just about sharing updates on your day-to-day life—it offers real, measurable benefits that can help you thrive during your study abroad journey.

Mental Health and Emotional Support

Adjusting to a new country can be overwhelming. The hustle of your studies, the excitement of exploring a new culture, and the occasional bouts of loneliness can take a toll on your mental health. Regularly connecting with your family provides a steady source of emotional support. Whether you're celebrating a small win or venting about a bad day, knowing that your family is just a phone call away can be a huge relief.

Cultural Adjustment

As much as studying in the UK can be exciting, there will be moments of culture shock. Staying in touch with your family can help bridge the gap between your home culture and the new experiences you're having abroad. They can offer advice, comfort, or simply a sense of familiarity during moments of discomfort.

Motivation and Encouragement

Being away from home can make you second-guess your decision to study abroad. But a quick call from home can reassure you that you’re doing the right thing. Family provides constant motivation and encouragement, helping you push through the inevitable challenges of studying in a new environment.

Best Communication Tools for Staying in Touch

With the rise of digital communication, staying connected with family has never been easier. Here are the best tools to keep in touch while studying abroad in the UK:

Video Calling Platforms

When you're miles away, seeing a familiar face can do wonders for your well-being. Here are some video calling platforms to consider:

Zoom: Great for scheduling regular family calls, especially if your family members are spread out in different time zones.
FaceTime: If you and your family are iPhone users, FaceTime is an easy and reliable way to connect.
Skype: While it may feel a bit old-fashioned, Skype remains one of the most reliable platforms for international calls, especially if you're on a tight budget.
Google Meet: If you're already using Google services, this is a seamless option for video calls and can be synced with your Google Calendar for easy scheduling.

Messaging Apps

Sometimes, a quick text is all you need. These apps are perfect for sending short messages, pictures, and even video clips:

WhatsApp: It’s one of the most popular messaging apps worldwide, allowing you to text, send voice messages, share images, and make calls.
Telegram: Telegram offers a ton of features, like group chats, media sharing, and the ability to share large files without worrying about data limits.
Signal: If privacy is a concern, Signal offers encrypted messaging, making it one of the safest options for communicating.

Social media is an excellent tool for keeping your family updated on your travels. Share photos, videos, and status updates through platforms like Instagram and Facebook. You can even create private groups for more intimate sharing.

Private Blogs: Consider creating a blog where you document your experiences abroad. Share it with your family so they can follow your journey more intimately.
Google Photos: You can create a shared album with your family, where they can view all your pictures in real-time.

Email and Text

The classic option. Sometimes nothing beats a heartfelt email or a thoughtful text message. These tools are especially useful when you want to write longer updates or discuss important matters in more depth.

Scheduling and Managing Time Zones

One of the biggest challenges when staying connected with family while studying abroad is managing time zone differences. The UK might be several hours ahead or behind your home country, depending on where you're from. Here’s how to make it work:

Understanding Time Zone Differences

Let’s face it: you’re not always going to be awake when your family is available, and vice versa. Understanding the time difference is key to managing this issue. Tools like time zone converters can help you schedule calls without confusion.

Setting Up a Routine

Set a consistent routine that works for both you and your family. It could be a weekly Sunday evening call or a quick text exchange each morning. This way, you can ensure that both sides are prepared to connect, and you avoid that awkward "I forgot to call" moment.

Tools for Scheduling

Time Zone Converter Apps: These apps can help you easily find a time that works for everyone.
Shared Calendars: Using a tool like Google Calendar, you can schedule calls in advance and get reminders, so no one misses a catch-up session.

Creative Ways to Stay Connected Beyond Calls

Sometimes, it’s not enough to just talk. Let’s look at some creative ways to keep that bond strong, even from a distance.

Sending Care Packages

Receiving a care package from home is one of the best ways to feel connected. Whether it's a box of your favorite snacks, a handwritten letter, or a small gift, these thoughtful gestures remind you that your family is thinking of you.

Virtual Family Hangouts

Who says you can’t have fun together, even from miles away? Host a virtual movie night, play an online game together, or watch the same TV show and discuss it afterward.

Letter Writing & Postcards

While digital communication is fast and convenient, nothing beats the charm of a handwritten letter or a postcard. You can send these little bits of nostalgia to your family, making them feel more connected to your journey.

Create a shared photo album on Google Photos, where your family can upload pictures from home, and you can share your adventures abroad. It’s a fun, interactive way to stay engaged in each other’s lives.

Overcoming Communication Barriers

Even with all the tools at your disposal, there may be some challenges to overcome when staying connected.

Time Constraints

Balancing academics, social life, and family communication can be tough. Set realistic expectations with your family. Let them know if you have a busy week and may not be able to call as often, but reassure them that you’ll catch up when you can.

Cost of Communication

While many messaging and video call platforms are free, you might still encounter charges for international calling or data usage. Be mindful of your data plan and consider switching to Wi-Fi whenever possible to save costs.

Language or Accent Barriers

If your family doesn’t speak the same language, or if you’re encountering strong accents in the UK, it might take a little while to adjust. Be patient with each other and don’t hesitate to ask for clarification when needed.

Maintaining Connection with Friends and Extended Family

Family is important, but so is maintaining friendships and staying connected with extended family members.

Incorporating Extended Family

Don’t forget about grandparents, cousins, or aunts and uncles. Scheduling group calls can help everyone feel involved, even if they’re not living in the same area.

Staying in Touch with Friends

It’s important to have a balance. While you’ll naturally focus on family, don’t neglect your friends. Schedule virtual hangouts with them too, as they can offer a different type of support during your time abroad.

Tips for Dealing with Homesickness

Homesickness is a common experience for international students. Staying connected with your family is one way to help ease the pain, but there are other strategies that can help:

Recognizing the Signs of Homesickness

Feeling homesick can manifest in different ways, such as lack of motivation, sadness, or withdrawal. Recognize these signs early, and remember that it’s normal.

Using Communication as a Coping Mechanism

Regular family calls can be a great coping tool, providing a reminder of your support system back home. Consider making these calls a part of your self-care routine to maintain your mental well-being.

Building New Support Networks

While staying in touch with your family is crucial, building a local support network in the UK can also help combat homesickness. Get involved in student clubs, attend events, and make new friends.

Technology and Security Considerations

Online security is essential when communicating over the internet. Be cautious about sharing personal information and consider using tools like VPNs to protect your data.

Using VPNs and Encrypted Messaging Services

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) can add a layer of security when communicating with your family, especially if you’re using public Wi-Fi.

Managing Your Digital Footprint

Remember that everything you share online could potentially be seen by others. Always be mindful of what you post, especially when it comes to personal information.

The Importance of Balancing Independence and Family Connection

While it’s essential to stay connected with family, don’t forget that studying abroad is also about personal growth and independence. Find the balance between staying in touch with your loved ones and embracing your newfound freedom.

Growing Independence

Study abroad is an opportunity to build confidence and independence. However, that doesn’t mean you have to disconnect completely from family. Use your communication with them as a tool for growth, not a crutch.

Setting Healthy Boundaries

Establish boundaries with your family to ensure that you have time to focus on your studies, social life, and personal growth. This will help both you and your family feel more comfortable.

Long-Term Benefits

Staying connected with your family can create stronger bonds that will last well beyond your time abroad. It’s about building a relationship that thrives on mutual support, even from miles away.

Staying connected with your family while studying abroad in the UK doesn’t have to be difficult. With the right tools and strategies in place, you can maintain strong, meaningful relationships that help you navigate the challenges of studying abroad with confidence. Whether through video calls, messaging apps, or creative gestures like sending care packages, there are endless ways to keep that connection alive.

Remember, studying abroad is about growth, adventure, and discovery, but it’s also about staying grounded. And who better to help you stay grounded than the family that’s been there for you from the beginning?

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FAQs

How do I manage the time zone difference while staying connected with my family?
Managing time zone differences can be tricky, especially if you're studying abroad in the UK. Use time zone converter apps to find convenient times for both you and your family. Setting up a routine, like a weekly call at the same time, can help. Shared calendars on platforms like Google Calendar are also useful for scheduling calls.
What are some budget-friendly ways to stay connected with family abroad?
To save on costs, use free communication tools like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Skype. These platforms allow for free texting, calling, and even video chats over Wi-Fi. Always be mindful of data usage and try to connect when you're on Wi-Fi to avoid international calling fees.
How can I handle homesickness while studying abroad in the UK?
Homesickness is a normal part of the study abroad experience. Stay connected with family through regular calls or messages. If you’re feeling homesick, it can also help to write letters or send postcards home. Additionally, building a support network of friends and engaging in activities can ease the pain of missing home.
How often should I call my family while studying abroad in the UK?
The frequency of calls depends on your schedule and preferences. Some students prefer daily check-ins, while others may find that weekly calls work better. Setting up a regular routine helps ensure you stay connected without overwhelming yourself with constant communication.
What are some creative ways to stay connected with family during my study abroad experience?
Beyond video calls, you can send care packages filled with home comforts, share digital photo albums, or host virtual family hangouts like movie nights or game sessions. These creative touches help strengthen the bond between you and your family.
Can social media be used to stay connected with family while studying abroad? Yes, social media is a great way to keep your family updated on your life abroad. You can share photos, videos, and status updates on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or even create a private blog where family can follow your journey.
What tools can help me with homesickness while studying in the UK?
Communication tools like WhatsApp and Zoom are great for staying in touch with family and friends. Additionally, building a support system locally, joining student groups, and scheduling regular video calls can help alleviate feelings of homesickness.
How do I balance independence with staying in touch with family?
While it's important to stay connected with your family, studying abroad is also about growing independently. Set healthy boundaries and make sure that communication doesn’t interfere with your academic or social life. Striking the right balance will help you make the most of both worlds.
What are the best apps for staying connected with family while abroad?
WhatsApp, Telegram, and Google Meet are some of the most popular apps for staying in touch. WhatsApp and Telegram are great for messaging, while Google Meet allows for seamless video calls. Consider using a VPN for extra security while using these apps.
How do I handle a situation where I can’t always be available for a call due to my schedule?
It’s important to communicate your schedule with your family. Set expectations for when you’ll be available, and if necessary, schedule calls in advance. You can also send quick updates through texts to keep in touch even when you’re busy.