Hosts and Students

What Hosts and Students Say:

I have enjoyed being part of the host family program for many years. It has been a pleasure for me, my family and friends to get know a new friend from Mac each year and welcome them in to our life in Minnesota. It is great fun having our day-to-day world seen with fresh and new eyes.Things we take for granted or just experience day in and day out are brand new when seen for the first time – like walking on a frozen lake or discovering “strike anywhere” matches. And of course there are all the great things the Mac International students bring from their world and share back. I have been honored to meet many wonderful young people. They have enriched my life as well as the lives of my family and friends. As they leave to take on the world it has been wonderful to stay in touch and continue to share our lives and hear of their new life adventures. Dennis Cashman, St. Paul, Host since 2004



My host family is great! In the beginning of the year, Sue took me to Target to buy things for my room, and to the social security office for my social security number. It was great to be able to get off campus every now and then, and meet a family from the Cities. It has been nice getting to know them and learn about the US and the area by talking to them. Having a host family has been rewarding in many ways, even in small ones like having a place to bring my plant to during the winter holidays. They also came to watch my dance performances and I really appreciated that.I particularly like the fact that there is no pressure in meeting up but we check in with each other to see how things are going because we like to do so.
-Claire Schuch, The Netherlands,'11

"I read in the Macalester Bulletin that there was a need for host families for international students. I responded saying I didn't know if I was qualified but I would love to help out if I fit the criteria. Little did I know that I would be the one who gained the most. I am here for occasional moral support, dinner or activity. But I have received so much more from my international children, Noel and Eleni. They have given our family love, a different perspective and hopefully a relationship that will last forever." -Toni Schrantz, Shoreview, Host since 1998

I'm having a gorgeous time with my host family. They care about me very much and we hang out together every two or three weeks. Last Thanksgiving they even took me to Dennis's parents' house in Randall, MN! I appreciate that they are doing their best to let me get more contact with every aspect of the US society. Vice versa, I believe their experience with me must be rewarding as well. Especially as their oldest son is studying in a Chinese immersion elementary school, Chinese culture is always an interesting topic between us and I can often help teach some simple Chinese. Chen Gu, China, '11

"When I first started hosting students many years ago, my own children were small, and it was great having such amazing "big brothers and sisters" as role models for them. Now that my kids are young adults and away from home, the international students give me the opportunity to spend time with some incredible young people. I'm still in contact with most of my graduates, and feel that my family truly expands the globe!"
-Marilyn Cragoe, Minneapolis, Host since 1995