It's not about housing. Cornell's International Host Program seeks local alumni and other community members to assist newly arrived international students and scholars with questions they may have about American culture and the Ithaca community, and to share such activities as holiday dinners, sightseeing, picnicking, shopping and family celebrations.

International students and scholars comprise nearly one-fifth of the student body and fill more than 1,300 academic staff positions.

Hosts and newcomers are usually matched near the time that the newcomer arrives in the United States. Once a match has been made, the participant and host receive information about their match. Hosts are expected to make the first contact with their international partner and are encouraged to meet with them at least once during the semester and be communicative by phone or e-mail.

Hosting an international student or scholar benefits the host as well as the newcomer.

"This program is intended to enhance the lives of all participants who will share experiences, learn new skill sets and build lifelong relationships," said Brendan O'Brien, director of the International Students and Scholars Office, which in collaboration with the Cornell Campus Club and Office of Alumni Affairs, sponsors the program.

If interested, see http://www.isso.cornell.edu/ithacalife/hostfamily.php or contact Adriana Rovers, apr6@cornell.edu or 607-255-5243.