We can connect you with an American Family or Friend while you are away from home.

What is the Friendship Partner program?
The Friendship Partner Program is a great opportunity to get to know an American family or individual. Some students spend several years in the U.S.A. without ever really getting to know what American life is like outside the campus environment.
This program is sponsored by Friends of Internationals, a Christian Campus Organization, seeking to make friends and meet the needs of international students. In addition to being matched with an American friend/family, you may be contacted by Friends of Internationals and invited to participate in other activities.

Why should you get involved?
This is a good chance to make friends outside the university and experience American life. You also become an “ambassador” for your country, sharing your culture with Americans.

Is this a Home-Stay situation?
No. You do not live with your American friend. It is simply a chance to get to know an American Friend and to develop a friendship.

How long does this friendship last?
Hopefully for a lifetime! Many friends and students continue to correspond long after students have returned to their home countries. It all depends on the individuals involved. The choice is yours.

How do you meet such a family or person?
Fill out the application form and submit it now.
You will be matched with an American who shares your interests. It may take a couple of weeks to process your application.

What happens after I fill out the application?
After you are matched, you will be contacted by your American friend. They will set up a time and a place to get together. Your friend will pick you up if you don’t have transportation.
Your American friend wants to get together with you about once a month. You may be invited to go to a concert, the zoo, bicycle riding or to have dinner. Of course, you can invite them to do things with you too!
Feel free to ask questions and get to know your friend and their family. If they have children, spend time with them too! The more time you are able to invest in your friendship, the more rewarding and enjoyable it will be.

Email: tampa@internationals.org