If you’re considering moving away to college, it’s OK to feel apprehensive. You won’t have the luxury of popping home whenever you get a little homesick (or your laundry starts piling up).

If you’re from out of town, state or country, GCU has got you covered. Check out our big college move guide on battling homesickness and feeling more at home on campus.

• Plan your $$$ wisely: Give yourself a monthly allowance of spending money and try and stick to it. Budget for weekend activities with friends and if you’re planning to bring your car to school, set some money aside for gas.
• Learn how to cook: Cooking some of your own meals will help save money and give you some healthier options to avoid the dreaded “Freshman 15.” While GCU’s freshman dorms do not have kitchens, you are allowed some appliances including a refrigerator and microwave. Check out our Pinterest page for some easy, healthy and yummy dorm room recipes.
• Connect with fellow freshmen: Check out GCU’s Facebook page. Chat with other ‘Lopes on Twitter. Email or call your roommate to prepare for move-in day:Who’s bringing the fridge? What posters should you hang?
• Spend time saying goodbye: If you’re moving far away from your hometown, you’re probably leaving behind many childhood friends. Be sure to spend time with each one before saying goodbye and schedule time to catch-up over the phone once you’re at school

• Get involved: There are over 40 different student organizations and clubs at GCU. Joining a club is a great way to explore professional interests and meet like-minded students. If you’re interested in a little friendly competition, consider playing an intramural sport.
• Stay healthy: Fried food, pizza and ice cream are great for late-night study breaks but not for your waistband. Try to avoid unhealthy snacks and fill up on fresh veggies and fruits at the Student Union. And remember to exercise. GCU’s Student Rec Center has a fully-equipped gym that also offers fun group classes like Zumba and yoga.
• Go to class: It will be tempting to hit the snooze button infinitely without your parents around to make sure you roll out of bed on time. Don’t. Going to class consistently will not only help you score higher on your midterm, you’ll also be more apt to get to know your classmates better and form a more personal relationship with your instructor.
• Keep in touch: It’s important to call home every now and then to stave off homesickness. Plus, your parents will appreciate it!

For most students, this will be their first time living away from home and maybe even the first time sharing a room. We won’t lie—the transition won’t always be easy. But it doesn’t have to be scary. If you have an open mind, going away to college can be one of the best decisions you ever make.

Grand Canyon University offers a wide variety of resources to help you get the most out of your college experience. To learn more about GCU, visit our website or use the request more information button at the top of the page.