Friendship Partner Program

Find a home-away-from-home while studying in Bloomington. Connect with an American friend, build meaningful relationships, experience local culture, and feel supported during your time in the United States.

What is the Friendship Partner Program?

Being far away from home can feel exciting, but it can also feel lonely at times. Through the Friendship Partner Program, Bloomington International Student Ministries (BISM) connects international students with local Americans who want to welcome, encourage, and support students during their time in Bloomington.

Friendship Partners may invite students to family activities, meals, holiday celebrations, local outings, or simply spend time together and build a genuine friendship. The goal is not housing or sponsorship, but meaningful connection and community.

Our hope is simple: that every international student would experience friendship, belonging, encouragement, and a caring community while away from home.

Choose the Type of Partner You Want

Friendship Partner

A Friendship Partner is an American family or individual who wants to build a genuine friendship with you during your time in Bloomington.

  • Spend time together through activities or meals
  • Learn about American culture and traditions
  • Receive practical help and local guidance
  • Celebrate holidays and special occasions together
  • Build meaningful friendships while away from home

Many students meet with their Friendship Partner about once a month and stay in touch regularly throughout the semester.

Conversation Partner

A Conversation Partner focuses especially on helping international students practice conversational English in a relaxed and encouraging environment.

  • Practice English through real conversations
  • Grow confidence speaking in everyday situations
  • Learn American expressions and communication styles
  • Meet regularly in a welcoming environment
  • Build friendship while improving language skills

Conversation Partners often meet weekly and encourage students to use English naturally during activities and conversations.

Benefits of the Program

Make Local Friends

Connect with Americans and build meaningful relationships outside the university setting.

Experience American Culture

Learn firsthand about traditions, holidays, food, and everyday life in America.

Practice English

Improve conversational English naturally through real-life interactions and friendship.

Explore Bloomington

Discover local places, restaurants, stores, and activities with people who know the area well.

Share Your Culture

Teach others about your country, traditions, food, and experiences.

Feel Supported

Have people who care about you and want to help you feel at home while studying abroad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my Friendship Partner help me with English?

Yes. Friendship Partners are happy to help you practice conversational English through regular interaction and friendship. While they do not provide formal English classes, spending time together naturally helps improve confidence and communication skills.

Do I need to pay for this program?

No. The Friendship Partner Program is completely free for international students.

How do I sign up?

Complete the registration form online. After submitting the form, BISM staff will contact you and help connect you with a Friendship Partner or Conversation Partner.

How often do we meet?

Every friendship is different. Some partners meet weekly, while others connect a few times each month depending on schedules and availability.

Register for a Friendship Partner

We would love to help you connect with caring people in Bloomington and make your time here more meaningful and memorable.

Register Now

Questions about the program?

Kristi Huston
kristi@ifmusa.org