iFriend Program Seeks Hosts

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FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The University of Arkansas iFriend program is in need of volunteers to be paired with international students or scholars. The program aims to connect local individuals or families with international students, as a platform to build friendships. iFriend is not a homestay program. However, it is a great opportunity to visit with an international student or scholar once a month and learn about a new culture.

Individuals can get involved with the iFriend program by becoming a Friendship Family or a Campus Cousin. The Friendship Family program matches international students with individuals or families in the local community. Hosts meet with their international students once a month or more to share traditions, holidays and everyday life. The Campus Cousins program matches international students with domestic students at the U of A, and allows the students to develop a peer friendship by participating in campus life events and sharing their culture.

Orientation sessions for those interested in volunteering with the program will be held in Holcombe Hall from 1 to 2:30 p.m. on Jan. 10, 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Jan. 12, 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Jan. 13 and 2 to 3:30 p.m. on Jan. 17.

Those interested in participating in the program should contact Karen Beitle, iFriend coordinator, at ifriend@uark.edu.