Host Frequently Asked Questions

International Friends accepts applications year-round. Most hosts will be matched in August and January at the start of the semester to give you more time with your student(s). Other matches are made on a rolling schedule as students are available.

There are also one-day host opportunities each summer at the end of May and the beginning of August. These are with visiting secondary school students from Springfield's Sister City, Isesaki, Japan. Contact the International Friends coordinator if you're interested in participating.

It is best to arrange at least one meeting in person each month, with additional communication via phone or email. Decide which communication method works best for you and your student. You can reach out to your student the way you would any other friend. The more you connect, the more meaningful your experience will be.

Initial matches should last one semester or more. Many participants continue to host their students throughout their entire academic careers. Students may be in the US for only one semester or for the duration of a degree program (2-4 years). Friendships built in the International Friends program often last a lifetime.

We encourage you to contact the International Friends coordinator to receive a new match once you're ready.

Your student is an individual from outside of the US studying at Missouri State in a short or long-term academic program. They may be of any age over 17 and could be from any country. Students may be in graduate or undergraduate programs or pursuing professional development opportunities at Missouri State. They may be a single individual or a family with or without children. Students come from a variety of backgrounds.

The International Friends coordinator will match students and hosts based on common interests. They consider language and cultural connections, professional interests, and hobbies.

This information is gathered through the online application, completed by you and your host. This helps us understand your interests and goals for the program. You and your host will attend an orientation to understand program expectations. These orientations also provide guidance on building friendships that cross cultural borders.

 

Every participant has a unique experience depending on interests, availability, and personality. Be open and communicate with your student about what you would like to gain from your experience.

Compare interests and hobbies so you can try new things together. Invite your student to local points of interest, festivals, or a casual dinner at home. They will likely invite you to similar activities that they plan to take part in on- or off-campus.

Students are here to study, but it's important that they experience US culture. You can play a big role in how much they learn about our region. We encourage you to find and share upcoming events or activities you've enjoyed with students on the International Friends Facebook page.

Please communicate with International Friends if you have any issues with the program. We want this to be a pleasant experience for all involved.

If you would like to end your involvement, contact the International Friends coordinator. They will remove you from the program and match your student with a different host.