Winter Hosting - Information for students
Will you be staying in Glasgow over Christmas Vacation? Don’t spend it alone; apply to have a winter host!
All you need to do is complete a short Microsoft form and the International Student Support team will then match with a university staff member who has volunteered to be a host. You and your host will take part in a festive activity together during Christmas Vacation.
Activities could range from sharing a meal at the host’s home, decorating a Christmas tree, going ice skating, attending a musical event or pantomime, or simply meeting up for hot chocolate! You and your host can decide which activity you’d like to do and when you’d like to do it.
When can I apply for a host?
Applications will open in early November. We will send out an email to all international students with a link to the application once they open and will also post the application on the Winter Hosting webpages.
Who are the hosts?
All hosts are University of Glasgow staff and they have chosen to volunteer their time to be hosts.
Will I spend the night at my host’s home?
No, you and your host will take part in any festive activity you choose. This may include going to your host’s home, such as for a meal or to decorate the Christmas tree, but this will not involve spending the night.
How many times will me and my host meet?
You and your host can choose to attend the in-person Meet and Greet if you wish. In addition to that, you and your host will meet once to partake in a festive activity.
When will me and my host meet?
You and your host can choose which date and time you wish to meet over Christmas Vacation. You can choose a day that works for both of you.
Will my hosts have any other students matched with them?
Yes, some hosts may be matched with more than one student and you all may be taking part in the activity together as a group. Hosts may also include their families in the activity. You will be notified if your host is matched with more than one student.
Is there a fee?
No, Winter Hosting is free to take part in, though you would be expected to pay for any activities that you take part in with your host if a fee is involved (for instance, paying to go ice skating). If you have a meal at your host’s home, you may wish to offer to bring some food or drinks along. It is always best to check with your host if any cost will be involved before you agree on an activity.
What sort of activity will me and my host take part in?
You and your host can take part in any festive activity you’d like. Your host may suggest an activity, but you're welcome to suggest your own ideas as well.
Some suggestions include:
- sharing a meal at your host’s home
- going ice skating
- going to a Christmas market
- attending a musical event or pantomime
- baking Christmas cookies together
- decorating a Christmas tree at your host’s home
- meeting up for hot chocolate
- partake in a special holiday tradition that your host celebrates
What if I don't celebrate Christmas? Can I still take part?
Yes! You are still very welcome to take part if you don't celebrate Christmas. Students and hosts both come from diverse backgrounds and religions and celebrate diverse holiday traditions. Many festive activities are not tied to Christmas or to any particular religious tradition. Though, if you would like for us to try to match you with a host who shares your same religious faith, please let us know in the application form.
Who can I contact if I have any questions?
If you have any questions about Winter Hosting then please don't hesitate to get in touch with the International Student Support Team at internationalstudentsupport@glasgow.ac.uk