Press Releases

Feb 22, 2000
Help Host International Students for a Weekend

Contact:
Darren Johnson
(631) 287 8313
Fax: (631) 283 4081

Don't let that guest bedroom go empty. Eastern Long Island residences are sought to host one or more visiting international college students March 17-21 as a part of the Homestay Program. Its goal is to help the students learn about American life and improve their English language skills. "It's usually a very rewarding experience for both the student and the host. If you choose to help one of these students you'll probably get even more out of it than they do," said Continuing Education Director Laura Lyons, "and the students need every possible chance to speak English."

The students are spending this year at Southampton College as a part of its English Language Institute. Each year members of the community help the international population of Southampton College at the beginning of spring break when much of the college is closed. Lyons said that hosting a student doesn't require any unusual commitment. "The students are very self-sufficient, and often they will show their appreciation to a host by cooking an international meal," she added. Call (631) 287-8311 for more information.

Recently, the international students have been seen at numerous local events, including a meal with the Southampton Youth Group, a performance by the Big Apple Chorus at Sag Harbor Elementary School and a gospel performance at Southampton's First Presbyterian Church.