Host an Intern
Find Out What is Expected of a Host Family
Hosting an intern can be an extremely rewarding experience for everyone in the family, yet it is a role that requires a lot of responsibility. Interns are vital to the success of our program and hosting an intern is a great way to get involved!
Host families are to meet these expectations:
Before the intern arrives
Participate in orientation sessions offered by PASI (July)
Establish communication with the intern by sharing pictures, personal information, etc. (Email once you know who your intern is. Zoom is a great way to establish communication with them before they come as well).
Understand the program rules that the interns and host families must follow. This is covered in orientation.
Know how to contact the intern coordinators in case of an emergency.
First Things after their arrival
Provide the intern with a card including your address, important phone numbers and other specific household information they may need (garage codes, key locations, etc).
Arrange for the intern to have access to a cell phone. (Most interns bring their own). Be clear about the arrangement so they understand their role (number of minutes, texts, internet, who is paying the bill, etc).
During the exchange
Provide a safe and welcoming environment for trust and friendship to develop between the intern and your family.
Support and make the intern feel like a part of the family, with the same privileges and obligations.
Gently encourage the intern to learn and adopt most of the ways of your household.
Provide room and board for the intern. School Lunch is provided every day at the cafeteria if the intern chooses to eat it. Many will still like to pack a lunch on some days.
Recognize the intern’s birthday and other special occasions.
Ensure the intern knows how to contact family members, friends, and other support networks.
In case of an emergency, know how to access and use the intern’s travel insurance policy.
Voice any concerns and questions regarding the intern to the intern coordinators, including serious homesickness, difficulty adapting to family life or school, communication issues or illness.
Maintain close contact with the intern coordinators and address problems and concerns quickly.
Encourage involvement in community life by introducing the intern to neighbors, friends, and local groups.
Teach the intern about the local culture, and learn about the intern’s culture.
Advise the intern about matters related to school, family, community functions, and friendship.
Provide daily internet & private time for the intern to communicate with family & friends back home.