“I have been struggling with homesickness since arriving at university. Help?”

Make time to familiarize yourself with your surroundings! Explore the city — you’ll begin to find your favourite spots, like a cute café or a nice walking trail. Doing this will make you more comfortable in your surroundings, and your new environment will begin to feel like home.

Keep in contact with friends and family at home, too. Reminiscing about shared experiences can help you feel more connected to the people you miss. Sending friends a new music discovery or sharing a new recipe with family can help you feel closer to your loved ones.

“I recently kissed a girl at a house party, and I now have feelings for her. What is your advice for someone who is really scared to come out?”

I’m sorry to hear that you’re feeling so scared to tell people about the awesome experience you had! Coming out is hard, because it’s a constant process. From the people closest to you to weird men in bars who hit on you, you will frequently find yourself explaining your sexuality to people.

Bottom line? You don’t have to come out unless you feel fully comfortable and safe to do so, and you can be selective of your audiences. Don’t be afraid to speak to the Student Wellness Centre if your feelings about your sexuality are taking a toll on your well-being.

“I currently share a room with someone, and I am so frustrated with the living situation. How do you deal with a nightmare roommate?”

Problem roommates can be debilitating to your mental health and can seriously affect your university experience. Definitely avoid hanging passive-aggressive notes — that’s just another level of petty — but do not suffer in silence.

There are many types of annoying roommates — maybe they’re really messy or they blast their favourite Rihanna song at ridiculous o’clock. It might seem like you live with Satan incarnate, but if you don’t say anything, then you can’t expect them to change their ways. Confrontation is daunting, but you shouldn’t waste your time pussyfooting around a jerk.

To help you get started, the University of Saskatchewan has a step-by-step guide to dealing with roommate conflicts at www.students.usask.ca/articles/healthy-living-with-roommates.

*Our advice columnists are not technically qualified doctors, but they care about you. If you’re struggling with something, email opinions@thesheaf.com.