The English Language Institute at Virginia Tech is seeking local individuals or families to host international students in their homes beginning in the fall. The homestay program links host families in the community with highly motivated international students who wish to experience American life and improve their language skills through daily casual conversation. Last year more than a dozen international students were provided housing arrangements with host families. Homestay arrangements are flexible and may last two months or longer by mutual agreement.
Students pay for rental of a bedroom and, in many cases, kitchen and laundry privileges.
Hosts are encouraged to interact with their guests as much as possible. They also want to learn as much as they can about American life and culture. Snoke said it was often difficult for students from the Language Institute to find housing because apartment rental was often difficult to obtain in the fall. Many of these students need short-term accommodations, and campus dormitory space is limited. They have been the nicest people you could ever want to share your home with.