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YOU CAN HAVE A GLOBAL IMPACT
BY
BEING A FRIEND TO AN INTERNATIONAL STUDENT
AS A
FRIENDSHIP PARTNER

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

Be a friendship partner to an international student showing loving hospitality!

"When a stranger lives ... in your land ... you shall love him as your own ... I am the Lord." Lev. 19:33&34 (Berkeley)

Question: I don't know any foreign language. Will this prevent me from being involved? 

Answer: The students, to be able to study here, have to have sufficient English fluency. They may struggle verbally using English but what they appreciate is an opportunity to practice their English with someone whose English is their first language. 

Question: How much time will this involve? 

Answer: It depends on you and the student. It may be a one-time meal on a special holiday or you may decide to meet on a regular basis. The students don't want any special treatment, but just to have an opportunity to experience what Canadian family life is like. (see student page)
 

Question: I am an older person. Why would a student be interested in me as a friend? 

Answer: In many cultures younger people look up to, respect and value the wisdom and friendship of older people. Many are missing the counsel of their parents. 

Question: I have a young family. Will the children be a problem? 

Answer: Your children are a definite asset. Many internationals are married and are here without their families and miss their children. You will find your children will open up many doors to the hearts of these students. 

Question: What are the steps to being involved in this program? Is there any training provided? 

Answer: We, as staff workers with International Student Ministries Canada, will help you get involved by providing initial training in co-operation with your local church. Canadians who are interested are asked to fill out a Friendship Partner application  form. We work closely with the international student office which promotes the program among the international students at the University. As the students contact us indicating their interest in this program, they are asked to fill out a similar information form. The Co-ordinator/staff member will use these two forms, along with information gathered by personal contacts with students and Canadians, to try to make the best link possible and assist the partner in connecting with the student. It is highly recommended that the Canadian Friendship Partners attend an orientation and training session before any linking is made. We will also attempt to provide additional  ongoing encouragement and training. 

From the International viewpoint

International students appreciate Canadians who have them into their homes for meals and treat them as part of the family, including them in their activities and have an opportunity to practice their English. It is like having a home away from home! They especially feel their loneliness during the holidays when Canadian students leave to be with their families. Testimonies