PROVIDENCE, R.I. [Brown University] — Although each new student begins at Brown with their own unique background and upbringing, many will at some point share an experience that’s universal to nearly all first-year college students — missing people, places or other parts of home.

Sure, there’s been plenty to keep students on the move: The Class of 2027 has already moved into residence halls, passed through the Van Wickle Gates at Opening Convocation and navigated a busy schedule of Orientation events. And as classes began on Wednesday, Sept. 6, they embarked on their journeys through Brown’s Open Curriculum, carving academic paths through coursework customized to advance their passions and interests.

But when the dust begins to settle and students develop their academic and extracurricular routines, Brown’s first-year students hailing from all 50 states and 76 nations will inevitably crave a taste of home.

In the vignettes below, five new students share their most treasured items they brought to keep them company and stave off homesickness — regardless of whether home is 15 minutes or 15 hours away.