International Friendship Program seeking new hosts

The Office of International Students and Scholars is preparing to welcome 2,200 new international students to Purdue this fall semester. One way they do this is through the International Friendship Program (IFP).  

IFP is looking for faculty, staff and other community members who are willing to befriend a new international student and invite them to be a part of their everyday activities. Typically hosts and students meet once a month during the student’s first semester. 

Students arriving in the U.S. for the first time are eager to make friends, explore the community and navigate a new culture. Volunteer hosts through friendship provide just that.

Prospective hosts can view online host orientation and register for the 15-minute Host Q&A. Upon registration, participants will receive a Zoom link to join the meeting. Q&A session start times in July/August are:  

• July 13 (W) – 4:30 p.m.
• July 21 (Th) – noon
• July 27 (W) – 4:30 p.m.
• Aug. 3 (W) – noon
• Aug. 11 (Th) – 4:30 p.m.
• Aug. 17 (W) – noon
• Aug. 24 (W) – noon
• Aug. 25 (Th) – 4:30 p.m.

Past IFP hosts who wish to be paired with a new international student for 2022-23 can log into their host account and register for “Fall Semester 2022.”