Winter Hosting - Information for students
Will you be staying in Glasgow over Christmas Vacation? Don’t spend it alone; apply to have a winter host!
Please note, Winter Hosting applications are now closed for winter 2024.
Winter Hosting is a brand new scheme at UofG run by the International Student Support team (ISS). Its aim is to help international students feel at home away from home while fostering a sense of community and culture-sharing amongst international students and staff. The scheme particularly benefits international students who are unable to or decide not to return home over the festive period.
To take part in the scheme, you will need to complete a short Microsoft form. You will then be matched with a host and other students in a small group. The group will be made up of between 2 to 4 students and one staff host.
You, your host, and the other students with will take part in a festive activity of your choice on a day of your choosing during Christmas vacation. The activity will take place on campus or in a public place (Glasgow city centre).
Activities could range from visiting a Christmas market, going ice skating, attending a musical event or pantomime, or simply meeting up for hot chocolate! There is no pressure to partake in any particular activity; it is completely up to you, your host, and the other students in your small group.
When can I apply for a host?
Student applications to have a Winter Host opened in November and are now closed. If you have any questions, please contact internationalstudentsupport@glasgsow.ac.uk
Who are the hosts?
All hosts are University of Glasgow staff who have chosen to volunteer their time and undergo training to be hosts.
Will I meet with my host one to one?
No, you will not meet with your host one to one. Your host will be matched with between two and four students. You will meet with your host in a small group of between two and four students.
How many times will me and my host meet?
You, your host, and the other students that your host is matched with can choose to attend the in-person Meet and Greet if you wish. In addition to that, you, your host, and the other students that your host is matched with will meet once to partake in a festive activity.
When will me and my host meet?
You, your host, and the other students that your host is matched with can choose which date and time you wish to meet over Christmas Vacation. You can choose a day that works best for all of you.
Is there a fee?
No, Winter Hosting is free to take part in, though you would be expected to pay for any activities that you take part in with your host if a fee is involved (for instance, paying for food, drinks, or for a ticket or entry fee). It is always best to check with your host if any cost will be involved before you agree on an activity. Your host will be happy to choose an activity that is low or no cost.
What sort of activity will me and my host take part in?
You, your host and the other students can take part in any festive activity you’d like.
Some suggestions include:
- Grab a drink together (hot chocolate, coffee, tea...).
- Share a meal together.
- Attend a musical event or pantomime.
- Attend a religious/church service or partake in a religious tradition that either the host or student celebrates.
- Make a holiday craft (Christmas baubles).
- Visit a Christmas market.
- Go to a museum.
- Visit an historic sight in Glasgow.
Will I visit my host’s home?
No, in line with the University's Code of Professional Conduct for University staff, staff aren't permitted to have students in their homes. Therefore, you will meet your host on campus or in a public place, such as Glasgow city centre. You, your host, and the other students your host is matched with will decide together where you will meet.
What if I don't celebrate Christmas? Can I still take part?
Yes! You are still very welcome to take part if you don't celebrate Christmas. Students and hosts both come from diverse backgrounds and religions and celebrate diverse holiday traditions. Many festive activities are not tied to Christmas or to any particular religious tradition. Though, if you would like for us to try to match you with a host who shares your same religious faith, please let us know in the application form.
Who can I contact if I have any questions?
If you have any questions about Winter Hosting then please don't hesitate to get in touch with the International Student Support Team by emailing internationalstudentsupport@glasgow.ac.uk