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Peyton Tripp
Host families come in all shapes and sizes!
Host families come in all shapes and sizes!
Expect a single parent, multi-generational household, retired senior, or a large extended family that visits every weekend. Be open to a family that looks different than your own and be curious to learn about what family means in different cultures!
Bring your host family a gift to give them when you arrive to thank them for having you in their home and to break the ice! Here are some gift ideas...
Bring your host family a gift to give them when you arrive to thank them for having you in their home and to break the ice! Here are some gift ideas...
Popular US snacks for them to try!
ROC, Naz, or NY themed goods
Jewelry for your host mom
A handwritten thank you card in the language they speak
Want to start off right with your host family or having trouble connecting with them? Here are some tips to help you get started...
Want to start off right with your host family or having trouble connecting with them? Here are some tips to help you get started...
Engage with them! Even if you are not fluent in the language, simply being present and visible in the home will help you connect
Communicate! Even if you are not fluent in the language, your body language, smile, and frequent thank yous will go a very long way toward establishing a positive relationship
Help out around the house! Wash dishes after a meal, even if your host mom insists that she will do it
Show curiosity! Ask to learn how to cook a meal, about your host parents' lives, or to go for a walk around the neighborhood
Be a conscientious guest! Don't stay up late talking on the phone after everybody else goes to bed (especially if the home has thin walls), let your host parents know of your plans (for example, if you won't be home in time for dinner or are planning on traveling over a weekend), and keep your space clean
Greetings are very important to a host family!
Try not to complain! Even if you do not think your host family understands English, complaining on the phone or social media could make for a very awkward dynamic if your host family finds out you are not happy in their home. Instead, address issues or concerns with them directly or your university coordinating home stays
TL;DR: Here's a video with what to expect living with a host family or in a homestay
TL;DR: Here's a video with what to expect living with a host family or in a homestay
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This collaborative message board is a forum for real communication between university students abroad to anonymously exchange experiences and advice
This collaborative message board is a forum for real communication between university students abroad to anonymously exchange experiences and advice
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"I have found that surrounding myself with people and only speaking Spanish allows me to connect more with people. Practicing Spanish with my host parents helps me to speak Spanish with my peers. " ~Nazareth University student who studied abroad in Spain
Your host family is there to help you! Chances are, they are used to hosting students and want to help you assimilate and practice your language skills.
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