Experience Midwestern American Life with a Local Family – Join our Friendship Family Program!
At Northern State University, as an international student, you have an incredible opportunity to connect with local families through our Friendship Family Program (FFP)—a unique way to make your time in the United States even more memorable.
The Friendship Family Program (FFP) at Northern State University is a cultural exchange initiative offered through Northern’s International Programs. Designed to enrich the experience of international students, the FFP connects you with local families in the Aberdeen community for friendship, cultural sharing, and meaningful connections outside the classroom. This program provides you with the chance to experience everyday American life, practice conversational English, and build lasting relationships—all while fostering global understanding and community engagement.
Whether it's sharing a home-cooked meal, attending local events, going on weekend outings, or simply chatting over coffee, spending time with a local American family offers so much more than just fun. You'll get to experience authentic U.S. culture, naturally improve your English skills, and form meaningful friendships that cross borders.
Local families volunteer to be part of this amazing experience by applying and attending an orientation, and then we carefully match them with students. Each month, FFP offers exciting activities and chances to explore all that Aberdeen and the surrounding community have to offer—there’s always something going on!
A few things to know
- Students are responsible for their own costs during outings (like meals, tickets, or travel expenses).
- Families are not expected to host students in their homes or overnight. All international students live on Northern’s campus. There are no exceptions of overnight stay obligations.
Are you ready to connect, learn, and make unforgettable memories?
Ask us your questions or sign up below—we can't wait to welcome you into our Friendship Family Program!
For families and community members
Interested in becoming a Friendship Family? You’re just a few steps away from making a meaningful connection with an international student and sharing cultures in a fun, welcoming way. To get started and learn more about the process, email Northern’s International Programs at michael.mohammed@northern.edu and we’d love to have you join the program!
All new families must complete our application and meet with one of Northern’s International Programs staff.
For northern's international students
Looking to connect with a local family during your time at Northern? The Friendship Family Program is a great way to experience American culture, build lasting relationships, and feel more at home. If you’re interested in joining, head over to Northern’s International Programs and speak to a staff member. Next, apply here to get started—we’re excited to match you with a family!
*Please note: all students enrolled in the Friendship Family Program must show proof of Northern State University approved health insurance.
Here’s a glimpse into the heart of the Friendship Family Program—shared meals, fun outings, and meaningful connections. These photos capture the special moments and lifelong friendships formed between students and their host families.
Questions?
For all inquiries regarding the Friendship Family Program, please contact Northern’s International Programs. For immediate assistance, please email michael.mohammed@northern.edu or call 605-626-7672.