by Rebecca Carvalho

Created on: November 27, 2009

This time of the year most college students are out of campus for the Holidays season. A few number, mostly international students, cannot go home. If you saw your friends and other college fellows pack their clothes in laundry baskets simply because they were too anxious to rush out to their parents' house; if you saw the cafeteria close and was forced to start cooking ramen noodles; if it has started snowing and all you do is to stay online while depressively stalking the people you love the most on Facebook; then this article was written thinking of you.

Dear reader, this article was made by someone who understands your situation - and from the perspective of someone who knows very well how you feel, this reporter must tell you: Cheer up, there is always something you could do to bring joy to your life even though life separated you from your beloved ones. First of all you need to stop feeling annoyed whenever you listen "I'll be home for Christmas". Turn off the radio if necessary, but face that unfortunately you will not be physically home for the Holidays. Take a deep breath, and listen carefully:

One cannot stop time: the same way you are going to miss the Holidays festivities with your family this year, time will bring the next year; life will restart in many ways; and the right moment will come when you will be finally reunited with the ones you love. Time is in constant movement. Time will be the cure for your sorrow. Why not to celebrate it? New Years' Eve is one of the most popular celebrations in the world, and in many ways represent victory. Victory over whatever bothered you the entire year. You have got a chance to start a new life, with new plans and projects, and an entirely renewed energy.

You must be thinking "How can I celebrate New Year's Eve if I'm living in a college dorm?!". Yes, you will have to be flexible and adapt to the circumstances - but you will not miss New Year's Eve. Decoration is a good first step to maintain the spirit of the Holidays season alive, so here are some tips that could help you fix your room:

1) Balloons are always welcome. White and silver balloons floating near the ceiling is not just festive - it is very pretty, and will certainly bring joy to your eyes.

2) Shiny 'Happy New Year' posters are another good choice. A "Welcome 2010" could be posted on your door, literally inviting the new year to come in. You can make them yourself, which is even better and your pockets will thank you.

3) Christmas lights are not just for Christmas. Hang some lights around your windows and you will get the closest idea of watching fireworks shows.

Invite your neighbors that also stayed on campus, to see your room decoration. Ask them what their plans are, and who knows you could end up having a New Year's Eve party with your new friends in your room! Within reason... let yourself have a happy New Year!

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