Winter Hosting – Information for staff hosts
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.
While informal meet-ups between staff and students have occurred in the past, we recognised a need for more structured opportunities to foster connection during the holiday period. This initiative aims to address that gap by inviting students to register and be matched with a small group of peers and a staff volunteer lead (that's you!).
You and the students you are matched 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 and the students. You may also wish to ask the students to share something about their culture or traditions with you.
We believe the scheme will be an enriching experience for both students and hosts. Thank you for learning more, and we hope you'll take part.
Please note, staff host applications are now closed for winter 2024.
How do I apply to be a host?
To become a host, you will need to complete a Microsoft form where you will include information about yourself and your hosting preferences. Please note, staff host applications are now closed for winter 2024.
When can I apply to be a host?
Staff host applications typically open in November and close at the end of November or early December. Please note, staff host applications for winter 2024 are closed.
How many students will I be matched with?
Depending on numbers of students who apply and the preferences you indicate in the application form, you will be matched with between 2 and 4 students. To remain in line with the University's Code of Professional Conduct, you will meet with the students in a small group rather than one to one.
Is there a cost involved?
We do not expect you to pay for the students that you host and we are ensuring students are aware that they will need to pay for themselves for any activities you take part in. You will be expected to cover your own costs for the activity. Many low or no cost activities are possible and a list of possible activities will be provided to all hosts and students.
What sort of activities will me and the students take part in?
You and your 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.
Can I invite the students to my home?
To remain in line with the University's Code of Professional Conduct, you will not be able to invite students to your home and instead will meet the students you are matched with on campus or in a public place in Glasgow city centre.
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 at internationalstudentsupport@glasgow.ac.uk