International Friendship Program looking for host families, holding orientation sessions

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 homes and 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.

Brown bag lunch orientation sessions will be offered on campus from 12:10-1 p.m. on July 6, 12, 20 and 26 in Young Hall, Room 101 (Study Abroad Office). Saturday orientation sessions will be held 11-11:50 a.m. July 8, 15, 22 and 29 at Faith West Community Center, 1920 Northwestern Ave. Registration for the sessions is available online.

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