International Friendship Program holding orientation sessions, looking for host families

Many Purdue faculty and staff have found a flexible rewarding relationship with an international student through the University's International Friendship Program. This summer, many orientation times are scheduled for faculty and staff to learn more about the program.

Faculty and staff who join IFP are encouraged to get together once a month with their assigned student over the student's first semester at Purdue. IFP hosts typically invite their students into their everyday activities or to a local attraction or a holiday event. Experiencing life with an American family is a desire many international students have in coming to the U.S. In return, host families and friendship partners gain cross-cultural friendships and a deeper appreciation for the world beyond Greater Lafayette.

Summer orientation will cover what is expected of host volunteers and how to sign up and get paired with a student.

Orientation sessions will be offered on campus from 12:10-1 p.m. on June 22 and 29, and July 6, 13, 20 and 27, in Young Hall, Room 101 (Study Abroad Office).

Other orientation times are 10:30-11:20 a.m. June 18 and 25 and July 9, 16, and 23 at Faith West Community Center, 1920 Northwestern Ave.

Email Beth Tucker, IFP coordinator, at friendship@purdue.edu to confirm attendance at an orientation. Grant Street Parking Garage passes are available upon request for interested community residents coming from off campus.