iFriend Program Seeks Host Families

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FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The University of Arkansas’ iFriend program is in need of volunteers to be paired with international students. The program aims to connect local individuals or families with international students, as a platform to build friendships. iFriend is not a homestay program. The program has matched more than 100 international students so far, but due to the significant increase in international enrollment this semester, there are still more students who need to be matched.

Individuals can get involved with the iFriend program by becoming a Friendship Family or a Campus Cousin. The Friendship Family program matches international students with individuals or families in the local community. Hosts meet with their international students once a month or more to share traditions, holidays and everyday life. The Campus Cousins program matches international students with domestic students at the U of A, and allows the students to develop a peer friendship by participating in campus life events and sharing their culture.

Those interested in participating in the program should contact Karen Beitle, iFriend coordinator, at ifriend@uark.edu.