Every year UWGB hosts exchange students from all over the world. One of the goals of the Office or International Education is to create an amazing educational experience for UWGB exchange students. We are happy you are interested in being part of this program. Below is information about the program:

What is a Friendship Family

A Friendship Family is a local family or individual who is paired with an exchange student to help them to become part of the Green Bay community. Friendship families help the students engage in local cultural activities and experiences.

What do Friendship Families Do

You may want to get to know the exchange student through an introductory visit. Some examples include:

·         Hosting a dinner at your home

·         Participate in a local event

·         Take a trip to a local point of interest visit parks, special communities, restaurants etc.

After an introductory visit, a friendship often develops naturally.  If that does not develop, that is okay!  We suggest reaching out to the student a few times to take off the pressure off the student to arrange visits.  Many exchange students have very busy schedules between academics and learning about the culture due to their short time in the United States.

The OIE will host a series of events for friendship families to attend:

- Welcome Breakfast (August)

- Family Weekend Pot-luck (September)

- Exchange Dinner (October)

Why is a Friendship Family so important?

For many students this is their first time in the USA.  Adjusting to a new culture can be very challenging.  Pairing a student with a UWGB faculty or staff member can help them to feel more “at home” and comfortable in the local community.