Kent State University's Office of Global Education is
introducing the Friendship Family Program to help
international students and local families build relationships
and share culture in a unique and fulfilling way.

Kent State University is proud to serve nearly 2,800 international students coming from a myriad of countries. Many of these students come to the United States hoping to engage in local cultural activities and make connections with individuals from the region.

Kent State’s International Student and Scholar Services office offers programming such as day excursions to Cleveland Cavaliers games, ski and snowboard resorts, museums and cities, such as Pittsburgh and Philadelphia; however, to support international students’ transition into the United States, a connection with the local community in the form of a “friendship family” could be a key component in adjusting to culture shock.

More often than not, international students arrive to the United States alone and without family members or friends in the area to assist the transition into their new surroundings. In this difficult situation, support from the Kent community is the best service we can offer to international students.

The Friendship Family program is designed for international students and families to build relationships and share culture in a unique and fulfilling way. Ideally, friendship families are people living in Kent who desire to provide international students with a welcoming environment, inviting their matched international student to informal dinners, holiday celebrations, occasional family outings or any other activities that will enrich the student’s understanding of U.S. culture. Additionally, students are encouraged to invite their friendship family to Kent State campus events. It is important to note that this is not a host family arrangement but simply a connection between a family and international student.

Kent State wants its international students to feel welcomed and at home, both on campus and in the local community. This program will support students’ needs and allow them to immerse themselves in U.S. culture. Similarly, families in the Kent community have the unique opportunity to learn about another culture from their newly “adopted” international student. All individuals involved in this learning experience will engage in intercultural communication, awareness and understanding. Ideally, participating in this program will foster personal growth for all members involved.

Kent State’s Office of Global Education is looking specifically for Kent State faculty and staff members who would like to participate in this cultural exchange. For more information, visit www.kent.edu/globaleducation/FriendshipFamily or send an email to KentFriendshipFamily@gmail.com.