Friends of International Students Family Application Form (for families to complete)
Imagine, for a moment, what it would be like to leave everything you know; your family, friends, country, language, food, etc., to travel to a foreign country to begin your college education. While it is an extraordinary opportunity, it is not one without great sacrifice and challenge.
Denison University offers a non-residential Host Family Program to enable students and families alike to engage in cultural exchange. Our Host Family Program is completely voluntary and is founded on mutual trust between the family and the student. The vast majority of our students are enrolled at Denison for four years and it is our intent that the relationship continue throughout their time at Denison. In our experience, we have seen relationships fly and on occasion, a few that never get off the ground. We ask for patience and understanding in the course of developing your relationship. Adjusting to life on campus can be quite overwhelming during the first few months. Students may not have time to meet, but it is helpful to check in with them and continue to offer opportunities to connect, be it a casual family meal, a trip to the store, a sporting or musical event at your child's school, etc. Exposure to everyday life in the U.S. is often appreciated - especially time spent in a home and/or a meal off campus!
We count on our host families to contact us with questions and concerns that may arise during the course of the relationship. Clear communication is very important and as you can imagine, miscommunication is not uncommon, especially during the first few months. We hope you will find your participation in this program both educational and rewarding. We look forward to hearing from you!
Please complete this form if you are interested in participating or would like more information about this program.