Schools we serve
University of Minnesota
University of St. Thomas
Concordia University, St. Paul
Minnesota State - Mankato
ELS
GLI
Minneapolis Community and Technical College
Century College
Macalaster College
St. Catherine University
Saint Paul College
Hamline University
Metropolitan State University
Things to do in Minneapolis
Ice fishing
Snow tubing
Bike around the Chain of Lakes
Visit art museums (including the iconic “Spoonbridge and Cherry)
Eat a “Jucy Lucy” (a hamburger with cheese inside)
Hike along Lake Superior
Shop at the Mall of America
See the Mississippi River (the longest river in North America)
Watch a hockey game (or try playing if you’re adventurous!)
Experience Minnesota Nice
USA Homestays has been placing international college students with local families in the Twin Cities since 2014. We began work in Mankato in 2023. In that time, we've worked with students from China, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Turkey, Oman, India, and many other countries. Our host families are the best in the area for providing a warm and welcoming experience!
Ben Robison and Barak Zierhut are the local Homestay Directors in Minneapolis and St. Paul.
Ben is married and has three young children. He speaks intermediate-level Arabic and studied some Spanish and Chinese. He enjoys making cross-cultural connections to help people understand and love each other. Ben and his family have hosted students in their own homes for the past three years as well! They like to take students to visit Minneapolis landmarks, eat dinner together, and generally share life together.
Barak is married and has two young children. He is passionate about learning and sharing culture, and making people feel truly welcomed while having a memorable time. Barak and his family enjoy bringing international students into their home and sharing meals with new and old friends. They also like to help others find fun things to do indoors and outdoors during the four seasons in Minnesota.
In addition to providing homestays, we offer camping trips a few times every year. We've been to the Ozarks of Arkansas, the Badlands of North Dakota, and the North Shore of Lake Superior in Minnesota, to name a few. We also host cultural events, like connecting students with families to share Thanksgiving dinner and hosting a large iftar meal on campus during Ramadan.
Have Other Questions? Contact Us
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