International Friendship Program looking for host families, holding orientation sessions

Mary Jo and Craig Anderson enjoy a Lafayette Aviators baseball game with their International Friendship Program students. (Photo provided) Download image

Many Purdue faculty and staff and their families have found a flexible, rewarding relationship with an international student through the University's International Friendship Program housed in the Office of International Students and Scholars. Host orientation times are scheduled for faculty and staff to learn more about the program.

IFP participants 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 homes and everyday lives. 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.

New hosts are required to attend a host orientation in July to learn what to expect and how they can get paired with a student.

New host orientation session times are scheduled both on and off campus.

* Noon to 12:50 p.m. July 11, 18, 25 and Aug. 1, Schleman Hall, Room 146. 
* 6:30-7:30 p.m. July 11, 18, and Aug. 1, West Lafayette Public Library, 208 W. Columbia St.
* Noon to 12:50 p.m. July 5, 12, 19, 26 and Aug. 2, Crosswalk Commons, 925 Hilltop Drive.  

Registration for the sessions is available online.

Those who have participated in IFP before and would like to be matched with a new student should sign up here.

Email IFP coordinators Beth Tucker or Wendy Medbourn at friendship@purdue.edu for more information.