International Connections

What is the International Connections Program?

The International Connections Program (ICP) is designed to promote friendship and cultural exchange between local citizens and the ASU international students and scholars.  Organized by the Office of International Education and Development, through this program, international students or scholars are matched with a family or an individual.  

Local participants are encouraged to invite students into their homes, share meals, celebrate holidays, and participate in community events with their host student.  International Connections is a progral to help ease the international visitor's adjustment to a new life in an unfamiliar land.  In return, hosting participants can enjoy the cultural exchange and develop international friendships while gaining a greater understanding of other countries, cultures, and customs. The ICP does not involve home stays, but operates simply as a friendship program for cultural exchange.

What are my responsibilities as both a local program participant or host student?

As a participant, you are asked to:

  • Get together once a month (or more often if you'd like!)
  • Maintain regular contact via phone or e-mail
  • Respect the other person’s culture, beliefs, religion, customs, etc.
  • Treat that person as you would want to be treated if you were in their country

What is the length of commitment?

Participants are paired for the length of a student's or scholar's stay at ASU.

How do I know when I’ve been matched?

Once we match people, we will email or call you with information and how to contact the student or scholar. 

What if I want to participate but I have limited time?

Families and students who do not want to commit to one student or one family can also participate in International Connection’s “Excursions Page."  A family can invite a group of students to their house or to an excursion on an event by event basis.  To post an event on the " Excursions Page," the family should email isss@appstate.edu.  The event will then be posted and international students who would like to participate will email isss@appstate.edu.  Once the outing has reached its maximum number of participants, the event will be removed from the website.

How do I participate?