International students are an important part of the University of Oregon, enriching the campus and community with students from over 90 countries. As the Division of Global Engagement prepares to welcome new international students this fall, it is actively seeking new short-term homestay hosts – individuals and families – to ensure every incoming student receives a warm and supportive welcome. 

This short-term homestay program is a unique opportunity for those eager to learn about new cultures and share a glimpse of American life with students just beginning their journey in the United States. The typical stay is three to five days, though it can extend up to a week depending on the student’s arrival and move-in date for their permanent residence. 

Homestay volunteers play a vital role in the student’s transition by: 

• Picking them up from the Eugene airport, bus or train station.
• Helping them settle into their new environment in Eugene.
• Providing an introduction to Eugene, including public transportation, banking and essential shopping.
• Assisting the international student in getting to campus for the start of International Student Orientation. 

Individuals and families interested in hosting an international student for a short-term homestay are encouraged to sign up by early July. Each commitment ensures the program has enough hosts to match with the incoming students. 

“We thoroughly enjoyed hosting a Korean student this past fall. We picked him up from the airport and dropped him off at his new residence hall when it opened four days later. In the meantime, he spent his days on campus with the international orientation, and it was great to have dinners together, hear his first impressions of life on campus, provide a warm welcome to the community, and help get him settled and oriented in Eugene. We will gladly host again!” said a Lundquist College of Business staff member.

Since 1950, the UO’s International Student and Scholar Services office has been partnering with the Friendship Foundation for International Students to match families with thousands of international students and scholars for short-term homestays. 

“My host helped me adapt to Eugene and made me feel accepted in the community. She gave me a brief explanation about the city and culture, and acted as a perfect mother for me in the three days I stayed with her,” said a UO international student.

In addition to hosting a student for a short-term homestay, employees can become a conversation friend or host students for Thanksgiving dinner.

To learn more or volunteer with the Friendship Foundation for International Students, visit their website or email ffis@uoregon.edu. 

—Spencer Smith, Division of Global Engagement Communications