Gustavus Adolphus College

International students can have a firsthand experience with an American family when they participate in the International Friendship Family program sponsored by the Office of International Education and the local community. Each student is paired with a family and together they learn about each other and the culture each represents. There are regular scheduled group activities such as picnics and social outings. Potluck dinners are often organized for Friendship Families and their students. At these gatherings families bring different dishes, so there are many types of food to try. Students sometimes join their Friendship Families for birthday celebrations, sports events, national holidays, or other celebrations. In addition to introducing international students to the United States and its culture, American hosts can offer some practical assistance. They can, for example, help practice English, or shop for clothing and food. It is an invaluable exchange of ideas and a basis for lasting friendships.
Unless international students inform us to the contrary, we will assume that all new international students are willing to participate in this program.

"The International Friendship Families Program is great! I love my family very much and feel them to be very close as a family. They made a difference in my life because they are always here for me when I need them, just like real families do!"

Galina Guneva, Bulgaria