Davis & Elkins College is thrilled to offer our Host Family Program aimed at fostering stronger community connections for its vibrant international student body. With nearly a quarter of the college’s population consisting of international students, this program seeks to integrate these students more deeply into the local community, providing them with a supportive and enriching experience during their time at D&E.
About the Program: The Host Family Program pairs international students with local families who volunteer to provide a welcoming home environment, cultural exchange, and a sense of belonging. This initiative is designed to help students acclimate to life in the United States, offering them a unique opportunity to experience American culture firsthand while sharing their own diverse backgrounds.
Why It Matters: “International students bring a wealth of cultural diversity to our campus, and we want to ensure they feel at home here in Elkins,” said Jacques Guillembet, Director of International Student Services at Davis & Elkins College. “By connecting them with local families, we create lasting friendships and mutual understanding that enrich both the students’ and the families’ lives.”
Community Involvement: Local families participating in the program will engage in various activities with their assigned students, such as holiday celebrations, community events, and day-to-day family life. These interactions help students build a network of support and a deeper connection to the Elkins community.
How to Get Involved: Families interested in becoming host families can contact Jacques Guillembet directly at 304-637-1361 or guillembetj@dewv.edu. The program welcomes families of all types and backgrounds, and training and resources will be provided to ensure a successful and rewarding experience for both the families and the students.
Testimonials: “Being a part of the host family program has been fantastic for our family. We have able to meet so many people from all over the world!” said Kimberly Payne, a participant of the program. “It is really important to be a home away from home for these students who are so far away from their families.”
“Family is at the heart of Davis & Elkins College,” said D&E President Chris A. Wood. “For international students, far from home and immersed in a new culture, host families are truly a Godsend. The depth of relationships formed between the student and local family has both surprised and heartened me.
“The acceptance and comfort of ‘home’ is realized time and again in these mountains and transcends miles, language, and culture. Host families have shared with me the life-changing experiences from this program, and our students, who are now alumni, carry a piece of their Randolph County family in their hearts wherever they journey in the world.”
Conclusion: Davis & Elkins College invites the Randolph County community to open their hearts and homes to international students, helping to create a more inclusive and connected environment. Through the Host Family Program, the college aims to build bridges across cultures and provide a supportive network for its international student population.
