The Cultural Companion Program matches JWU international students with local families for a cultural exchange. For both parties, it’s a great way to gain perspective on what may be an unfamiliar culture. It also helps students feel more at home in the US. Families invite students to their homes for visits, holidays and other celebrations throughout the term. They may also get together with other friendship families for pot luck dinners, picnics or local excursions. (Rhode Island has many historical attractions to explore together.) The time commitment varies for each match. Some meet up once a week; others get together once or twice a month. Most settle into a routine — and time commitment — that they are comfortable with. If you and your family would like to be matched up with international students from JWU, contact Melinda Hill at 401-598-1194.
International students who are interested in being matched with local community members should download and complete an application (87K PDF) and return it to Melinda Hill.