Friends of International Students (FIS), is a non-residential host family program for international and global nomad students and as well as language assistants. It is a cooperative effort between ISS and volunteers in the local community. The goal is to connect students with local families for cultural exchange. Many FIS matches result in true and lasting friendships!
FIS Application Forms
- FIS Friendship Family Application
- Student FIS Application Form (Coming soon!)
FIS Community Volunteer Coordinators
How Does the Program Work?
This is a friendship program for cultural exchange. Students live on campus (NOT with their friendship family) and meet their families anywhere from once a week to 3-4 times a year. It is up to each student/family to determine how frequently to meet. Students are able to stay on campus during breaks, so this is a completely non-residential program.
What Do Families and Students Do Together?
As with any other relationship, successful participation in FIS will depend on the efforts YOU put into the program. ISS hosts several events throughout the year to bring families and students together, but you are encouraged to be creative and to invite and include one another in your everyday lives. Something as simple as sharing a meal, baking cookies together, or going for a walk are valuable activities that foster relationship and understanding.
Who Can Participate?
Students
Any first-year international student, one-year exchange student, global nomad student, or language assistant enrolled at The College of Wooster can apply. Upperclassmen may be able to apply should we have an adequate number of friendship families.
Families
FIS families come from local communities and represent a range of life stages and family types. They share a myriad of talents, experiences, and perspectives with international students, and they enjoy the opportunities for cultural exchange and personal enrichment that FIS brings into their lives.
When are Matches Made?
New matches are made before the beginning of the Fall semester and as needed in January.
Please note: Friendship families are NOT expected to provide break housing or to store students’ items over the summer. Students can stay on campus over breaks and the College has partnered with a local storage company to provide secure storage over the summer. It is never appropriate for a student to ask their friendship family for financial assistance. ISS is a resource for questions regarding activities, setting limits, and mutual expectations related to the FIS experience. If matches are not successful, you simply need to let us know!
You are invited to contact ISS or one of the Volunteer coordinators any time that you have questions or creative ideas, or you would like advice on working with your FIS partner.
Spend time and energy to make your FIS relationship successful. It will be well worth the effort!