International Friendship Family Program
As a part of our mission, we strive to connect the Cincinnati/NKY region to the world through cultural exchanges and global education. Join the International Friendship Family (Partner) Program and be paired with an international student at NKU as a local friend or a host family to make them feel at home when they get here.
Here is the link to apply if you’d like to get involved: https://airtable.com/shruzSTcFTmJKKBNF
Whether you are an individual or a family, a willingness to learn about another culture and to share yours is all you need. IFFP does ask that you commit to connecting with your student on a bi-weekly or monthly basis whether in-person, via a text, or phone call. How often you connect will depend upon the student you are hosting and what they are comfortable with. Please take your cue from him/her but also remember, your student may be shy or not want to inconvenience you. Please try to extend an invitation to participate in the activities you enjoy such as picnics, shopping trips at Target, shopping malls, etc., sporting events/activities, holiday events, or a visit to a local attraction like walking around the vibrant neighborhood near Hotel Covington or visiting Newport on the Levee.
When your student(s) arrives, he/she will likely need assistance with crucial tasks such as airport pick-up, opening a PNC bank account, purchasing a cellphone SIM card, electronic adapters, or other household set-up items. We recommend Teen Mobile, Cricket, Mint, or Metrotel without a yearly contract to start off. We also ask that you respect your student’s culture and values at all times. Please note, that the support you offer as a Host Family should be emotional and logistical, not financial.
If you have any questions, please feel to contact the NKU International Student and Scholar Services Office (ISSS) via email (isss@nku.edu)
Or you may contact Toni, the WISH coordinator: +1 859 757 3503/schnellert1@nku.edu.
You are invited to an International Friendship Family Reception at NKU to learn more on Wednesday, July 28 from 6:30 – 7:30 pm in the Student Union Ballroom. Hoping your experience is life-changing for both you and the student(s) you host!
