Cornell International Host Program
Mission
The International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) is committed to providing a broad range of support services to its students and scholars who have come to Cornell to study, teach or conduct research. Amongst the many resources that ISSO offers, the International Host Program matches students and scholars with local alumni and other community members who are committed to providing cultural, educational and social support. This program is intended to enhance the lives of all participants who will share experiences, learn new skill sets, and build lifelong relationships. Popular activities may include sharing holiday dinners, sight-seeing, picnicking, shopping and including the student in family celebrations or events.
Matching Process
International students and scholars and their host families may request to participate in the program at any time during their tenure at Cornell University by completing the form below. Participants are then matched with a volunteer host from the local community. Matches may not be made immediately. Once a match has been made, the participant and host will both receive information about their match. The host is expected to make the first contact with the international participant.
The Role of the Host
Hosts are expected to be a resource for international participants who are seeking additional support as they adapt to a new environment. Support may include assisting with questions about American culture and the Ithaca community or simply providing friendship and a sense of belonging to a newcomer. Hosts are encouraged to meet with their participants at least once per semester and be communicative by phone or email. Hosts are NOT expected to provide housing for participants.
After the initial match is made, hosts and participants are responsible for developing and maintaining their relationships. Time commitment and level of involvement will vary in each relationship based on the needs of participants. The ISSO will periodically offer programming and events for hosts and participants to attend.
How to Participate:
If you are interested in being either a host or a participant, please complete the form below. The information that you enter here will be sent to the alumni affairs office and the international students and scholars office. You will be matched with a host or participant. You will receive an email regarding the program within a few weeks.