The International Student Affairs Office is seeking area families to share holidays, occasional meals, and recreational activities with students from other countries who are studying at the college.

The students do not live with the host family, rather they engage with local families and individuals through such activities as dining and sightseeing.

"It's a rewarding experience for the students and the families," said Jean Gounard, director of the International Student Affairs Office. "The students learn about our culture and we learn about theirs.”

Each year, more than 300 international students from more than 50 countries study at Buffalo State, according to Gounard. Families who participate in the hosting program often develop friendships that continue long after the students graduate.

For more information about Buffalo State College's host family program, call (716) 878-5331 or e-mail Jean Gounard.