Response Summary
IHP Community Host Survey 08-09
24 out of 40 Hosts responded
For most of the participants in the survey this was their first year hosting a student. Most participants also heard about the International Host Program through a friend. 80% of those hosting said that their student met their desires to learn about other cultures, to help when needed, and to share meals and American cultural experiences together. 50% met once every other month with their student/s, 30% once a month or more often.
The hosts unanimously reported that they were adequately prepared by the Community Host Forum. Among the IHP activities, half of the respondents participated in the Welcome Reception-Ice Cream Social for International students. Just less than half helped out in the International Undergrad Move-in Day in August and came to the Fall Festival in November. Almost 80% came to the Presidents Reception for International students in September.
A few activities that the hosts shared with their students were:
- Attending art exhibits
- Touring the area
- Eating out
- Shopping
- Meals at home
- Meeting for coffee
- Sharing Thanksgiving and Christmas
- Catching up on the phone
- Cooking together
- Moving in the dorm
Some suggestions for improving the program were to get more folks involved, to provide a half day tour of Charlottesville including sights and neighbourhoods, and to schedule activities at a greater variety of times and dates.
Almost 80% of the hosts plan on participating in the program next year or plan to keep in contact with their existing student. A few not continuing were either moving or found they were over committed.
Thank you to all who participated in the survey. We value your input!
International Host Program Board
