Can you welcome an overseas student?

06 Jul 2012

Broaden your cultural horizons by inviting an international student into your home.

The International Society - a registered charity - arranges social and cultural activities and promote international friendship and understanding.

For over 35 years its members have successfully linked international students and visitors with local people, thereby fostering a closer understanding between different cultures.

Shared experience

Susan Fernley, Director of the Society, said: “The majority of these students and visitors never have the chance to visit a local home and get a taste of domestic life in the UK.”

“We have found that both students and their hosts gain a great deal from these meetings, through sharing experiences and learning about each other's day-to-day lives in their respective countries. Many students tell us that their hospitality visits were one of the highlights of their time in the UK.”

The Society is seeking University contacts to welcome students from a host of countries and cultures.

Added Susan: “Hosts don't need to do anything elaborate: what students really appreciate is a warm-hearted welcome for an afternoon or evening - perhaps a walk in the countryside, an afternoon tea or dinner with a family. Some families offer hospitality at Christmas time or during vacation periods when international students are unable to travel home and may be feeling a little isolated in Manchester.”

Each year, all students and hosts are invited to three social gatherings at the Society, where hosts have the opportunity to meet one another and socialise further with their student guests.

If you are interested in entertaining students and visitors or would like more information, please contact:

• Miss Susan Fernley, International Society, William Kay House, 327 Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PG
• Tel 0161 275 4959 | Email susan.fernley@manchester.ac.uk