Bridges to the Bay

Resident Application

Be connected with a host family!

About Bridges to the Bay

(previously Host Family Program)

Bridges to the Bay is designed to create meaningful cultural exchange between our international residents and local host families. Through the program, I-House residents are paired with families from the San Francisco Bay Area, offering students a welcoming connection to the local community while giving host families the opportunity to learn from different cultures, perspectives, and lived experiences.

Host families include I-House alumni, Board members, and members of the broader I-House community. We strive to create thoughtful matches that foster meaningful relationships, intercultural understanding, and lasting connections.

The time commitment is flexible and determined by each host family and resident. While participation varies, we encourage pairs to connect or meet at least twice during the semester.

Read More

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Eligibility

All participants involved must embrace and respect diverse identities, with a commitment to understanding and inclusivity. 

Host Families:

  • Should have a genuine interest in cultural exchange and sharing their way of life. 

Residents:

  • Must be an I-House resident and enrolled in a full-time academic program 2026-27 at UC Berkeley.

  • Should have a genuine interest in cultural exchange and participating in family activities.

  • While career guidance and network opportunities may be by-products of participation in this program, it is not the main goal of this relationship.

Application

  • Host families: no longer accepting applications

FAQs

  1. What are the responsibilities of a host family?

a. Provide a welcoming environment, share meals, and include the resident in family activities. 

  1. Do host families receive any compensation?

a. No, this is a volunteer program aimed at cultural exchange.

  1. How often do host families and students need to meet?

a. There is no set requirement, but regular interaction is encouraged for a meaningful experience.

  1. What happens if a host family or student needs to withdraw from the program early?

a. Notify I-House by emailing rio@ihouseberkeley.org as soon as possible to make alternative arrangements.

Contact Robertson Resident Life and Intercultural Development Office (RIO)

rio@ihouseberkeley.org