Friendship Family Program

Guidelines and Responsibilities for Students

     Goal:  The goal of the friendship family program is to provide 

              international students and families in the F-M area an

              opportunity to develop a social relationship that will enhance

              mutual intercultural understanding and increase the support

              base of students.

• Students and families are matched for a period of one academic year.
• Of course, the relationship may continue longer.
• Students are encouraged to make a connection with another family if they wish to participate longer than one year.

• Students should make contact with their families about once a month to build a strong connection. The activity can be almost anything, as the important thing is the connection you have with your family.
• Whenever possible, families should invite their students to celebrate with them holidays as these are often lonely times for international students who do not have family nearby.
• We encourage families and students to participate in the various Friendship Family activities planned by Concordia College so that they can get better acquainted with other families and students in the program.
• Explain your customs, country, food, country, religion, to your Friendship Family if they have any questions so that you can learn new things from each other.  
• Please contact us if you  have any difficulty in adjusting to life in the US, college life, or have any other academic or personal issues that may require assistance. The International Student Adviser, Aida Martinez-Freeman, will make every attempt to provide support to you.
• Religion is an important facet of many people’s lives across the globe. Learning about other religions can be very rewarding, and is also another way to understand a culture. As such, your student should know that they may attend religious services and/or events with you if they choose to. However, proselytizing (or religious recruiting) is prohibited in accordance with the NAFSA Association of International Educators ethical code. We encourage a respectful open dialogue when questions about religion arise. The most important thing is that the religious opinions or differences of both the families and students are respected.
• International Students on F-1 visas are prohibited from working off campus without authorization. As such, you may not accept paid employment from your Friendship Family. Examples include babysitting, housework, lawn work or other paid labor.
• Please do not ask your Friendship Family for financial support or other material items.
• Sometimes, families and students may not be compatible. In these rare cases, changes can be made through the program student coordinator, Tyra Fom.
• The friendship family program is not a home-stay program. Students will not live with their assigned family.
• Lastly, relax and have tons of fun!