The programs range from a trip to Orlando to spending a quiet Christmas with an American family. All three programs have an application for admittance and a fee. One program allows students to experience Christmas in rural America. This program is sponsored by Mennonite farm families so both the family and student have the opportunity to learn about a different culture. There are six families each year who participate in the program.
Students participate in caroling, chores and the family's celebration.
Richard Batty, a New Zealand native, attended the Mennonite program last Christmas. It was a very nice cozy place. They had 28 of us packed up there. But some students don't even get out of town for the holiday break. Those students are moved into one dorm, which will probably be McKee Hall, said Mike Yarnell, assistant manager of commons desk operations.