Here is an opportunity for you to have an enriching experience while making a real difference in the life of a WU international student.

For over 40 years, the Women's Society has supported programming, such as the fall Chancellor's reception, that welcomes international students and scholars. One of the ways WSWU members can be most helpful is to serve as unofficial American "ambassadors" through one of the following programs.

In 2004-2005, the Women's Society launched a host dinner program as a gift of lasting impact in honor of our 40th anniversary. The "Be Our Guest Dinner Program," provides an opportunity for international students to experience an American family's way of life, however briefly. Women's Society members are needed to provide a one-time meal in their home (or elsewhere) for one or two international students. In many cases, transportation will be necessary.

The "Host Family Program" is designed to advance the cultural exchange between international students and local volunteers. Families get together with their student or students once a month for dinners, trips to the theater, movies, sporting events or sightseeing. Hosts can include single adults, single parents, retirees and families with or without children. Although they don't provide living accommodations, hosts help temper the loneliness students face living and studying so far away from home.

The "Speak English With Us Program" matches community volunteers with international students and researchers from both the Danforth and Medical campuses who want to improve their understanding of the English language and American culture. They agree to meet at a mutually convenient time and place, usually once a week for about an hour. Volunteers are not required to be trained teachers or have any special language skills.

The Office for International Students and Scholars is looking for volunteers to participate in these community-connected programs that promote international friendships and further cross-cultural awareness.

For more information, contact Luisette Behmer at the Office for International Students and Scholars:

Phone: (314) 935-5910
Email: Lbehmer@wustl.edu.
Website - Office for International Students and Scholars: http://oisshome.wustl.edu.

Guest Dinner Volunteer Application (Word document) You can send this form back via the Post Office, or email it as an attachment to Lbehmer@wustl.edu.