Host Application
Hosting Programs
FIUTS understands that good community-based international programs not only keep Seattle on the world stage, they keep international affairs center stage in the Pacific Northwest. Getting involved as a community representative can be a wonderfully rewarding experience - here are the programs that FIUTS offers to keep our connections local and our community global:
Homestay Hosting
Volunteer homestay hosts provide a friendly environment for international students as they settle into their new lives in the Pacific Northwest. Homestays are typically for 7-10 days, and FIUTS hosts are the first point of contact for many international students upon their arrival in the United States. As cultural ambassadors, FIUTS hosts help to answer questions as students adjust to US culture, and can even maintain contact with them throughout their stay. Students arrive throughout the calendar year, with the vast majority arriving for the Fall Quarter in late August/ early September. Apply to be a homestay host here.
Have questions about hosting? View our FAQ section.
Friendship Connections
For those who don’t have the extra space for a homestay, Friendship Connections are an excellent way to help international students. FIUTS Friendship Connection volunteers have regular contact with their assigned student throughout the school year and occasionally invite their student to participate in a variety of social activities. New matches for Friendship Connections are usually made in August and September, but can be arranged throughout the school year.
Apply to be a friendship connection here.
Thanksgiving Dinner
Many international students visiting the University of Washington are eager to experience the American traditions and culture they've seen in popular media for themselves. Thanksgiving represents the very best ideals of community spirit and tradition. Hosting a student for Thanksgiving dinner is a wonderful way to get involved with the FIUTS hosting community and share a special holiday meal with international visitors.
Professional Mentoring
Sharing your insight and professional expertise with a student interested in your career field is another way that you can make a difference. Through the FIUTS Take the World to Work program, community members can meet students in the spring. Meetings can be anything from a formal workplace tour to job shadowing or a casual meeting over coffee. Learn more here.
Connect with FIUTS online