What is MEAL @ Michigan?
MEAL @ Michigan is an opportunity for U-M faculty and staff to host international students at their home for dinner. In 2020-2021, due to COVID-19 safety measures, MEAL @ Michigan will be moving virtual! While hosts do not need to provide dinner this year, we still think this program is a great opportunity for cross-cultural exchange between international students and faculty/staff.
For questions regarding MEAL @ Michigan, contact Kelly Wagner at kellwag@umich.edu.
Who participates?
U-M faculty/staff are the hosts and international students are the guests! We will pair faculty/staff hosts with 3-4 international students for a virtual meet-up. Matches will be based on date availability and potential areas of study/academic level.
When does it happen?
MEAL @ Michigan dinners typically happen on a Friday or Saturday nights (hosts and students are only matched for one date, depending on availability). For your virtual MEAL event, we suggest that you plan for a 60-90 minute meeting that starts sometime between 6-8pm.
MEAL @ Michigan dates for this academic year:
- Fall 2020: November 13 and 14
- Winter 2021: March 19 and 20
How do I become a host or guest?
To become a host or a guest, you must complete an application so that we can appropriately match everyone. Matches for students and hosts will be announced March 12, 2021.
- Hosts: Winter applications Due March 11
- For more information about hosting students for MEAL @ Michigan, read the 2020 Hosting Guide.
- Students: Winter applications Due March 11
International students are matched with hosts on a first come, first served basis, and we may not be able to accommodate all requests to participate.
