Connecting the Kenyon community outside of Gambier is often a memorable and inspiring experience. Students discover that meaningful Kenyon relationships can extend beyond campus as they connect with alumni and parents. Hosts have the opportunity to deepen their connection with the College through current student experiences, energy, and stories.
To best prepare for an enjoyable homestay, we recommend that students and hosts speak via Skype or phone to explore whether a homestay together is a strong match. People can have varying expectations that grow out of different family cultures. As such, it’s important to clarify expectations and agreements early on and to assess if it’s a good fit all around. Topics to discuss together in advance of a homestay might include:
- House rules and curfew: Students are expected to keep their bedroom neat, and to clean up after eating or using common space. Are students expected to pitch in and do additional chores as part of their stay? Can the student have a friend over to the house? Is there a curfew or check-in process at night? What level of family interaction is expected?
- Food: Though students are informed that they are responsible for food when in a homestay, some families like to come together for meals. Will the student be expected to eat with the family or to be responsible for their own meals? Does the student have use of the kitchen? Does the family or student have any dietary awarenesses that need to be shared with each other? Where can a student store food?
- Pets: Does the family have any pets? Are there daily animal care practices the student should know?
- Student amenities: Will the student have their own room? Is there a bed, futon, or pull-out couch? Will there be a space to store clothes? Does the student need to bring linens? Will the student have Wifi access? Are there any limits on streaming videos and/or music? Are there any rules, quiet hours or time limits regarding use of common space and amenities like a landline, washer and dryer, TV, family computer, or stereo?
- Daily schedule: When does each party need to leave for work? If the student is sharing a bathroom, is there a morning schedule to allow for multiple users? Will the student have their own set of keys? Is there a security system they need to know how to use? Are there any times during the student’s stay when the host(s) will be traveling or not at the house? If so, what are the daily house-sitting expectations?
- Transportation: Is the home near public transportation? If so, are there any tips for ease of use or suggested means, especially during rush hour times?
- Arrival and departure: What date and time will the student be moving in and leaving their homestay? What options are there for getting from the airport, bus terminal, or train station to the home? Does the student need certain ID to enter a homestay building or gated community?
- Health-related: What is an emergency contact number the host can call? Are there any allergies or health issues the host should be aware of?
Handling Problems
We anticipate your B&B experiences to be positive. However, every once in awhile an unexpected issue arises that needs to be addressed. If a student or host feels they need additional support to resolve the situation, the Career Development Office is here to help. We can help talk through an issue, offer an outside perspective, and suggest next steps. If necessary, we can also offer to mediate a conflict. Students or hosts are encouraged to contact the CDO to discuss any concerns. The CDO is open Monday-Friday from 8:30–4:30 p.m. EST. In case of a pressing issues, contact Campus Safety at 740-427-5000 or 740-427-5555. For medical emergencies, please contact the nearest hospital or emergency room.