The Mentor Family Program (MFP) at Marietta College matches new international students with families in the community for cultural exchange and as a means of added support for students with diverse needs.

International students benefit greatly from this program by having a family in the community that they can count on for support and attention in times of need, whether it be the occasional shopping trip, a quiet place to study during exam week, or a just someone to talk to when they feel homesick.

New international students are eager to learn about American life, on and off-campus. By opening their homes, mentor families provide a glimpse into many aspects of the U.S. culture, such as how Americans spend their leisure time, customs associated with formal and informal dining, child rearing and family dynamics, education, and much more.

Local families also benefit greatly as participants in this program. They have the privilege of taking a lead role in welcoming these special students to the Marietta community. Often, real familial closeness forms and mentors stay in contact with their "kids" for years and years after their responsibility has ended.

Families with young children have enjoyed the opportunity to introduce an aspect of diversity into their daily lives that otherwise might not exist. Family members studying foreign languages have also been thrilled when we've matched them with a native speaker, with whom they can practice their skills. Most participants, young and old, have experienced the rewards of befriending a person from another culture. It is an educational experience that opens minds and allows both parties to serve in the role of teacher, student and ambassador of their country and culture.

Application
Register to participate in the MFP as a student or mentor family.

2007-2008 Academic Year Activities

Expectations for Program Participants

• The MFP is essentially a first-year program, though it is very common for relationships to continue for many years. Once the student's first year has ended, student and mentors may agree to continue together, add new student to their "family," or simply stop.

• Participants generally spend time together once or twice a month. We recognize that some students and families may be unable to commit so much time and that is okay. We match families who have less time with those students who have indicated that they would still like to be involved but are more independent than some others.

• In addition to the activities planned by individuals, MC's Office of International Programs coordinates several programs each year for all mentor families and students. We hope all participants make a strong effort to be at each of these events.

• Mentor families should be available to offer support for simple daily tasks, such as the occasional shopping trip or by giving advice on what to do for fun in the community.

• Occasionally, questions and problems will arise between participants. Please keep open contact with the MFP Coordinator so that we can address any concerns, provide support, and help ensure everyone involved has a positive experience.

What Should Not Be Expected from Program Participants

• Hosting. Though mentor families might choose to invite students over for a short-term stay, this is not a hosting program. All new international students are provided on-campus housing.

• Airport runs. The MC International Programs Office provides free airport transportation on specified dates and MC Campus Police provides this service any time students request it for a fee of $60.

• Summer storage. Though it is a helpful service, if space permits, this is not required or expected or mentor families.

• Legal or emotional counsel. Marietta College provides all students a variety or services such as a counseling center, a career center, and an international student advisor who handles legal issues, employment concerns, and more. The MFP is a social program and not intended to substitute for campus services already available to students.