What is MEAL @ Michigan?
MEAL (Meet, Eat, and American Life) @ Michigan is an opportunity for U-M faculty and staff to host international students for dinner, fostering cross-cultural exchange and allowing students to experience the diversity of U.S. households.
Who Participates?
U-M faculty/staff act as hosts, and international students are their guests. Each host will be matched with up to four international students through an application process coordinated by the International Center.
How Does It Work?
- Flexible Scheduling: Groups will arrange their own dinner date and time, based on mutual availability during the Fall term.
- Meeting Window: Dinners must take place between October 12 and December 11.
- Coordination: Once matched, faculty and staff must work directly with their student group to schedule the dinner.
- International Center Notification: Hosts are required to inform the International Center of their selected date and time.
How do I Become a Host or Guest?
- Applications Due: All applications (hosts and students) must be submitted by Sunday, October 4, 2026 by 11:59 PM.
- Matching: Groups will be notified via email by Monday, October 12.
- Scheduling: Upon receiving their match, hosts should contact students to coordinate details and report the selected date/time to the International Center.
Apply to be a Host Here by Sunday, October 4 at 11:59 PM
Apply to be a Student Guest Here by Sunday, October 4 at 11:59 PM
Guides and Support:
Both hosts and students may refer to the following guides with tips and advice to help their dinner run smoothly.
Financial Support:
U-M faculty/staff hosting a dinner may request reimbursement for groceries, up to $15 per student (itemized receipts required). Submit receipts after purchasing food.
Health & Wellness Guidelines:
- If you feel ill, please cancel or reschedule.
- Take a COVID-19 test before attending, if possible.
- Mask-wearing is optional; respect anyone's request to wear one.
Questions?
Contact Samantha Antoine at [email protected].