Case Western Reserve University's International Friendship Program matches international students with Case Western Reserve alumni, staff, faculty and friends. The program helps students make the transition to life in the US, it gives hosts the opportunity to learn about other nationalities and cultures, and it can serve as a springboard for friendships that often last beyond a student's stay at Case Western Reserve.
International students don't live with their hosts. Instead, students join their hosts in activities that expose them to aspects of US life that they might not otherwise experience: for example, a home-cooked meal or sightseeing around Cleveland. Participating in the program is voluntary for both international students and hosts. Both hosts and international students share their cultures with each other which makes for a unique and rewarding experience.
Matches are made for one year; international student and hosts get together every 4-6 weeks. Orientations are held at the start of the fall semester in September or October. Hosts and assigned international students meet each other for the first time at the orientations.
The deadline for students to participate is in September. Applications from hosts are accepted year round. To learn more, email Liz Woyczynski or Diana Fox at international-friendship-program@case.edu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Case Western Reserve University's International Friendship Program:
- matches international students with Case Western Reserve alumni, staff, faculty and friends
- helps students make the transition to life in the US
- gives hosts the opportunity to learn about other nationalities and cultures
- serves as a springboard for friendships that often last beyond a student's stay at Case Western Reserve.
- International students do not live with their hosts.
- Students join their hosts in activities that expose them to aspects of US life that they might not otherwise experience: for example, a home-cooked meal or sightseeing around Cleveland.
- Participating in the program is voluntary for both international students and hosts. Matches are made for one year; international student and hosts get together every 4-6 weeks.
- Two in September, TBD!
- These orientations are a wonderful way for hosts to meet their student and form a connection!
- Once the IFP planners receive the names/contact information of the interested hosts and students, they take time to look over host/student interests or special requests, and keep those in mind while matching students and hosts.
- Both hosts and students can share their cultures with each other which makes for a unique and rewarding experience
You can apply to be a host at any time! Apply below or contact program co-coordinators Liz Woyczynski or Diana Fox at international-friendship-program@case.edu.