College of Professional Studies Seeks Volunteers to Host International Students This Summer

The College of Professional Studies seeks volunteers to invite international students to share a meal in their homes at a convenient time between mid-July and the first week of August.

Mike Frasciello poses with international students when he hosted them for dinner
Mike Frasciello (left), dean of the College of Professional Studies, hosted international Fulbright students for dinner last summer.

The students, hosted by International Programs, are Fulbright scholars from Asia, Africa, Central America, South America and Eastern Europe who will attend a four-week English for graduate studies program on campus to prepare them for full-time graduate study.

The scholars, chosen for the program because of their exceptional leadership and skills, will be in Syracuse July 17-Aug. 11, then join graduate, Ph.D. or research programs at universities throughout the U.S. Students will receive further training so they can then return and tackle challenges in their home countries.

Although they tend to have few opportunities to interact with Americans in a relaxed setting, these scholars have intriguing stories to tell and a lively curiosity about Syracuse and American culture.

Volunteers are asked to provide transportation between campus and their homes (to and from) the day of the mutually convenient visit. Two to three grantees are typically scheduled together to create diverse and interesting conversation for both hosts and students. Any dietary restrictions will be communicated ahead of time.

Those interested in volunteering, please contact Jackie Monsour, assistant director of international programs in the College of Professional Studies.