Living with a Homestay Family

Arrival: When you arrive at the Kelowna airport, you will be greeted by your new homestay family, or a staff member of OC International Education Department. The airport is about 15 kilometers from the Kelowna Campus.

Host Family: Your host family will make you feel welcome in Canada. They are interested in getting to know people and cultures from other countries. They probably don't speak your language, so English will be the language of communication.

Your New Home: All our homestays are situated within short, easy walking distance of a bus route. A regular bus service can get you to your ESL classes quickly and efficiently.

Privacy: Your privacy is valued in our homestay program. Each student will get his or her own bedroom. OC International's Homestay Coordinator checks each homestay to ensure cleanliness and friendliness.

Adoption: You may have new 'brothers and sisters' in your new home. They will always be interested in learning about your country.Talk with them and learn the local English 'slang'.

Cooking: If you miss your home cooking, you will often be able to find foreign food at the local supermarket, and your host family will certainly want to try your delicious meals! You will be provided with three meals a day, but don't be afraid to cook food from your own country and introduce it to your hosts!

Conversation: Much of your practice in English can happen at the dinner table during conversations with your host family. As you are part of the family, they will take an interest in the events of your day. You will be surprised how quickly your English will improve!

Housework: As part of the family, you will be expected to do your share of the housework, as agreed upon between you and your host family. Your share may be only to keep your room tidy, or as much help around the house that you want to do.

Laundry: Here, Daniela is being shown how to operate the washer and dryer. She wants to do her own laundry, and her host mother thinks that is a good idea.

Getting to College: Instead of taking the bus or getting a ride from her host mother, Daniela tries cycling.

Advice: OC International provides each student access to an Advisor, who will guide you on which courses to register for. As well, if you have any concerns regarding your homestay, the OC International staff can help you.