Winter Hosting – Information for staff hosts
Winter Hosting is a brand new scheme at UofG aimed at helping international students feel at home away from home while fostering a sense of community and culture-sharing amongst international students and staff at UofG.
The International Student Support team will match international students who remain in Glasgow over Christmas Vacation with university staff members who volunteer as hosts (that's you!).
You and the student(s) you are matched with will then take part in a festive activity of your choice on a day of your choosing during Christmas Vacation.
Activities could range from having a meal at your home, decorating a Christmas tree, going ice skating, sharing your favourite holiday tradition, 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! You may also wish to ask the student 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!
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.
When can I apply to be a host?
Applications will open in early November. We will publicise once the application form opens and will also post the application on the Winter Hosting webpages.
How many students will I be matched with?
Depending on numbers, you may be matched with up to 3 students maximum. You will be able to put your preference of how many students you are able to host in the application form.
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. With that said, a cost may be incurred, such as if you decide to host students at your home for a festive meal.
What sort of activities will me and the student(s) take part in?
You and your student(s) can take part in any festive activity you’d like.
Some suggestions include:
- sharing a meal at your home
- going ice skating
- going to a Christmas market
- attending a musical event or pantomime
- baking Christmas cookies together
- decorating a Christmas tree
- meeting up for hot chocolate
- partake in a special holiday tradition that you celebrates
- partake in a special holiday tradition that the student(s) celebrate
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