Welcome to the Global Lehigh Family Friendship Program!
The Family Friendship Program (FFP) is designed as a long-term initiative, pairing new international students with caring Lehigh faculty and staff to establish enduring social connections. Our goal is to cultivate friendships and instill a sense of belonging within our community, particularly for international students who may feel far from home as they embark on their academic journey at Lehigh University. This program offers international students an enriching opportunity to dive into U.S. culture and explore the vibrant Lehigh Valley by connecting with a welcoming local family. Not only does this initiative foster a deep family bond between students and hosts, but it also provides our faculty and staff with a chance to expand their global perspectives.
This is not a homestay program. FFP encourages hosts to engage with their assigned student(s) at least once a month throughout the academic year, offering a delightful opportunity to share traditions, holidays, events, and casual meals. We also encourage our international students to reciprocate by sharing their own cultures and participating in various cultural events with their family friendship hosts whenever possible. Although the program concludes at the end of the academic year, our hope is that students and hosts will choose to maintain their connections and friendships throughout their time at Lehigh. At this time, we are accepting applications from Lehigh faculty and staff to participate in the program. New students will apply to participate in August, and matches will be made just after the start of the Fall semester.
Section 1
Who are the participants in the program?FFP hosts include Lehigh faculty members, administrators, and staff members. Hosts may be single individuals, couples, partners, or families with children of various ages. Any new international undergraduate and graduate students admitted to Lehigh University starting their studies in Fall 2024 will be able to apply to participate in the program.
Each host will be paired with one or two international students (based on host survey selections and the number of students who apply), with the goal of fostering cross-cultural connections and friendships.
Section 2
What does the matching process look like?Our program participants will be matched based on shared interests and preferences provided in the application form, to the greatest extent possible. Therefore, we kindly ask the participants to be thorough and thoughtful as you complete your application, as this information will be applied to create suitable matches. Once matched, relevant information will be shared with both parties involved.
Section 3
How long does the program last?The program spans the academic year, running from September to May. This timeframe provides ample opportunity for participants to develop meaningful relationships, engage in cultural exchange activities, and support one another throughout the academic year. Regular meetings between FFP hosts and international friends are encouraged; we ask each pair to meet at least once per month. We hope that FFP hosts and the student(s) they are matched with will continue to maintain their friendship even after the formal program is over!
Section 4
What kind of activities are recommended for with hosts and students meet?The program kicks off with a Welcome Event in September, providing an opportunity for all participants to meet each other. Additionally, here are some activities to consider:
- Attend a Lehigh Sports game (most tickets are free for students and faculty/staff!)
- Enjoy a performance at Zoellner Arts Center
- Share and learn each other's favorite recipes
- Explore local parks through hiking
- Share a home-cooked meal or dine at a local restaurant together
- Celebrate holidays together
- Share and learn each other's cultural traditions
- Engage in seasonal activities such as visiting location markets, farms, or festivals
- Participate in our Annual International Bazaar and other organized activities
- Explore historic tours and sites in the Lehigh Valley Area
We remind program participants that this is not a homestay program, and we advise that participants avoid engaging in discussing financial matters, inquiries related to immigration/work opportunties, medical issues, and academic challenges.
If these issues arise, we encourage our host family friends to contact OISS so we can direct you to the best support resources to help with the specific concern.
Are you ready to apply?
*Coming soon* Application form for FFP Hosts
*Opening on August 1, 2024* Application form for new to Lehigh international students
Please contact Linnan Tartaglia at lit223@lehigh.edu if you have any questions about the program or the application/matching process.