I-House Host Family Program

About the I-House Host Family Program

The International House Host Family Program is designed to create meaningful cultural exchanges and foster global friendships. This program pairs I-House residents with local host families, providing students with a welcoming environment and a taste of local culture, and their hostswith a unique opportunity to learn about different cultures and perspectives.

The program connects I-House residents with a family (including families of I-House alumni, I-House Board members, and families of recent alumni) from the San Francisco Bay Area. Our hope is to create the most suitable matches for all participants with the end goal of providing opportunities to foster intercultural respect and understanding.

The time commitment is up to the participants (families and residents), but we hope residents and host check in/meet at least twice throughout the semester.

Contact Robertson Resident Life and Intercultural Development Office (RIO)

rio@ihouseberkeley.org

Eligibility

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

Host Families:

  • Must be willing to commit to hosting for at least one semester.

  • 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 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.

Timeline

  • Application Period: applications open July 30 – September 6th

  • Matching Period: September 9-13. Both parties will be notified of their match by September 13. 

  • Program Start Date: As soon as you have been matched 

  • Program End-Date: 

    • Fall only: December 9, 2024 

    • Spring only: May 5, 2025 

    • Full academic year: May 5, 2025

Application

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. Can residents request a different host family if it’s not a good fit?

a. Yes, send an email rio@ihouseberkeley.org to address any concerns. 

  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-Houseby emailing rio@ihouseberkeley.orgas soon as possible to make alternative arrangements.