Hiram College Friendly Family Program
At Hiram, we recognize that adjusting to college life and a different culture can be challenging for new students. Because of this, we offer new students the opportunity to connect with a local family. In addition to your connections at Hiram (friends, faculty, staff), your family friends will be part of your support system—people to whom you can turn when you have a question or you’re just feeling lonely.
Goal of the Friendly Family Program
Our goal is to provide an opportunity for you to develop your support system beyond the Hiram campus and to get acquainted with family life in the United States.
Length of the Program
You will be assigned to a family for a period of one academic year. Although you may certainly continue the relationship beyond that year, your family is only committed to one year through the program.
Meeting Your Host Family
You will meet your host family early in your first semester at Hiram College . If your assigned family is unable to attend the “Get-To-Know-You” receptions, we will give them your name and phone number so they can contact you directly.
Maintaining Contact
You and your family are asked to make contact two or three times a semester. Your family may invite you for dinner or an outing, or they may simply call you to see how you’re doing.
Possible Activities
Your
family may invite you to join them for birthday celebrations, local festivals,
concerts and lectures, special holidays, athletic events, and sightseeing. We also encourage you to explain your
customs, country, food, culture, etc. to them and possibly prepare a
traditional meal.
Dietary Restrictions
If you have any dietary restrictions, be sure to mention that in advance to your family.
Respecting Cultural, Religious, and Political Heritage
It is likely that your cultural, religious, and political customs and heritage will differ from some of your family’s views and practices (of course, there may be similarities as well). We ask both you and your family to respect these differences.
Issues For Which Your Family is Not Responsible
Your family is not responsible for financial, immigration, academic, employment, health, or serious adjustment problems. If you have issues in any of these areas, please consult the international student advisor. Your family is also not responsible for your transportation needs; however, they may offer to drive you somewhere (airport, doctor appointment). If you feel comfortable, feel free to accept the invitation.
When To Contact The Center For International Studies
If
you are having any problems with your family or just feel that you are not
compatible with them, please contact the International Student Advisor.
Enjoy
We hope that you enjoy your experiences with your family this year!
How to Apply for the Friendly Family Program
We hope that you will take advantage of this wonderful program that so many of our international students in the past have enjoyed! To participate in the Friendly Family Program, please complete this application form.