The Davidson College Host Family Program provides a caring  "home away from home" experience for Davidson's international students who would like to build a friendship with a local family. American families “adopt” international students to learn from them and to love them as sojourners in our country. The International Student Office matches families with international students from around the globe. All international students live on campus or in campus housing.
Who may participate in the Host Family Program?
Host Families range from single individuals to families with children. They are active members of the community and have a desire to learn more about another culture. Host families commit to hosting an international student for the duration of their stay at Davidson. This can either be a one-year exchange student or a four year degree seeking student. Ideally, families and students should meet at least once a month, but keep in contact with each other on a more regular basis.
What are the host family's responsibilities?
- Pick your student up from the Charlotte airport when he/she first arrives
- Bring him/her to the International Student Orientation (in August) at Davidson
- Communicate with your student on a regular basis
- Plan an activity with your student whenever it is convenient
- Invite the student into your home
- Learn about the student’s culture and country
- Be a friend to your host student
- Notify the International Student Office if you are unable to continue in the program
- Participate in Host Family events whenever possible
- You are NOT financially responsible for your student
What is the student's role?
- Communicate with his/her family on a regular basis
- Return all phone calls/e-mails from the host family promptly
- Accept invitations from the host family whenever possible
- Share his/her culture with the host family, and learn from the family about their culture
- Notify the International Student Office if he/she is unable to continue in the program
- Participate in Host Family events whenever possible
What are some of the Host Family events?
 The International Student Office organizes events for students and their host families. These events are fun opportunities to spend time with your "adopted" student, meet his/her friends, and socialize with other host families. In the past, these events have included:
- Cookouts at the Davidson College Lake Campus
- Hayrides
- Family bowling
- Cruise/luncheon on the Catawba Queen
- Charlotte Bobcats games
- Charlotte Checkers games
- and other fun events
Check out our Photo Gallery for great pictures of Host Family events!
What are some fun activities for host families and their students?
There are lots of great things to do in Davidson and the greater Charlotte area. Click here for a list of fun activities!
Want to be a host family?
If you are interested in being a Host Family for an international student, please complete the Host Family Program Background Information Form and e-mail it to:
Carol Sandke, Host Family Program Coordinator
You can also fax to 704-894-2120 or mail to:
Davidson College
Campus Box 7184
Davidson, NC 28035-7184
The International Student Office is located on the first floor of Duke Residence Hall.
Host Family applications are due in the International Student Office by May 15. Usually, by early July, students and families are paired together and e-mailed each other's contact information.
If you have further questions, please feel free to contact us.
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