Ruth Hubbard has welcomed more than 35 international students into her home over the past 25 years, in an adventure that has taken her around the world.
Mrs Hubbard is encouraging other Brisbane residents to consider joining her as a University of Queensland homestay host.
Her guests over the years have included students from Brazil, Chile, China, Colombia, Germany, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan and Thailand.
And she has made some lasting friendships and exciting journeys along the way.
Mrs Hubbard made the “incredibly rewarding” decision to host students after a back-fence conversation with a neighbour.
“She mentioned she was hosting students and said she enjoyed it, so my husband and I thought we should give it a go,” she said.
“Once you have had someone in your house, you get to know them as a person and you’re interested in what becomes of them.”
Staying in touch with her guests has taken Mrs Hubbard to Europe, the Americas and Asia, including multiple trips to Thailand to visit the first student she hosted. .
“I’ve had some great experiences, but the most valuable thing I’ve gained is an understanding of how different cultures approach life and that, basically, people from all over the world are similar,” she said.
UQ Institute of Continuing and TESOL Education (ICTE-UQ) student services manager Ms Janet Flanagan said the Institute organised homestay accommodation for more than 2800 students in 2014.
“Homestay is a great opportunity for hosts and students to meet new people and learn about other cultures,” she said.
“We find that the hosts who gain the most from the experience are those who have a genuine interest in getting to know their students and who take the time to make them feel welcome in the home.”
Ms Flanagan said ICTE-UQ homestay hosts included families, young couples, retirees and working professionals.
“Our student numbers keep growing and we are always looking for hosts who would like to join our ICTE-UQ homestay program, particularly during peak seasons in January-February and July-August.”
ICTE-UQ homestay hosts receive weekly payments to cover food and other costs. Short-term and long-term placements are available. Visit the ICTE-UQ website for information on becoming a homestay host.
Media: ICTE-UQ Communications Manager Frances Wickerson, 3346 6712, f.wickerson@icte.uq.edu.au.
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