Winter Hosting - Information for students
Will you be staying in Glasgow over the Winter Holidays? Don’t spend it alone - apply to have a winter host!
Winter Hosting aims to help students staying in Glasgow over the winter break to feel at home away from home while fostering a sense of community and culture-sharing. The scheme particularly benefits international students who decide not to return home over the festive period.
To take part in the scheme, you will need to complete a short Microsoft form. You will then be matched with a host and other students in a small group. The group will be made up of between 2 to 4 students and one staff host.
You, your host, and the other students with will take part in a festive activity of your choice on a day of your choosing during the winter break. Activities could range from sharing a meal, doing a wellbeing walk, 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.
Booking Opening Soon
What sort of activity will me and my host take part in?
You, your host and the other students can take part in any festive activity you’d like.
Some suggestions include:
- Grab a drink together (hot chocolate, coffee, tea...).
- Share a meal together.
- Attend a musical event or pantomime.
- Attend a religious/church service or partake in a religious tradition that either the host or student celebrates.
- Make a holiday craft (Christmas baubles).
- Visit a Christmas market.
- Go to a museum.
- Visit an historic sight in Glasgow.
When can I apply for a host?
Student applications to have a Winter Host will be opening soon.
Who are the hosts?
All hosts are University of Glasgow staff and they have chosen to volunteer their time to be hosts. Please ensure to respect your host and their time whilst enjoying your activity!
When will me and my host meet?
You, your host, and the other students that your host is matched with can choose which date and time you wish to meet over Christmas Vacation.
There will alos be an in-person Meet and Greet during December term time to introduce yourselves and meet other students staying over the winter break.
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.
Will I visit my host’s home?
No, in line with the University's Code of Professional Conduct for University staff, staff aren't permitted to have students in their homes. Therefore, you will meet your host on campus or in a public place, such as Glasgow city centre. You, your host, and the other students your host is matched with will decide together where you will meet.
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 for food, drinks, or for a ticket or entry fee). It is always best to check with your host if any cost will be involved before you agree on an activity. Your host will be happy to choose an activity that is low or no cost.
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 by emailing uofgtogether@glasgow.ac.uk