Signature Programs

The I-House Program Office creates opportunities for residents to foster intercultural friendships and have fun through an array of programming such as signature I-House events, educational and cross-cultural programs, resident-initiated events, and off-campus trips.

We accomplish this by collaborating with I-House residents, the Resident Council, Resident Support Services, the Robertson Center for Intercultural Leadership, and the wider UC Berkeley community in order to build meaningful connections between I-House and its many stakeholders.

Please note that the programs featured below are for residents only unless otherwise stated.

Signature I-House Programs

Friendship Families Program

Formerly known as the Host Family Program, the I-House Friendship Families Program was created to forge memorable relationships between I-House residents and families through the simple, yet invaluable, gift of friendship. Given the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, Friendship Families is an entirely virtual program this Fall semester 2020. The program will connect I-House residents with a family from the San Francisco Bay Area, with recent alumni, or with families of recent alumni. Learn more on our Friendship Families Program page.

New Resident Orientation Retreats

Orientation Retreats are an overnight retreat for new residents that helps them make the most of life at I-House and meet new friends.

Global Homecoming

A day of unique I-House experiences, scrumptious international foods, a residents’ fashion show, and much more. Global Homecoming takes place the Sunday after the Homecoming football game.
Register for our next Global Homecoming on Sunday, October 20, 2019!

Sunday Supper

One of I-House's oldest and most distinctive traditions occurs three times throughout the academic year. This special gathering of residents, alumni and guests to share food, entertainment and friendship always brings something memorable.

Coffee Hour

Each Wednesday evening, residents gather in the Great Hall for coffee and treats. Residents can sponsor a special themed coffee hour that features their home countries’ cultural themes, music, and culinary specialties.

Additional Programs

The Program Office also supports resident-initiated programs in collaboration with the Resident Council and in collaboration with organizations like Rotary Clubs to deepen your understanding of our local communities. The Program Office also offers several popular programs and trips around the San Francisco Bay Area to explore the performing arts, sports, and the outdoors.