Welcome to Gainesville, Florida! Moving to a new place is an exciting adventure, full of possibilities! We are eager to warmly welcome you and come alongside of you as you adjust to life in Gainesville. We offer many services and activities to promote friendship and provide opportunities for you to meet Americans and other internationals, practice your English, travel the U.S., share holiday meals, and explore the Bible in weekly small groups. Students, visiting scholars, and spouses of all nationalities and religions may participate. Families are always welcome.
Learn more about International Friendships
Please take advantage of these special activities and services for newly arriving students and scholars.
Airport Pick-Up & Temporary Housing
We are happy to help you get settled into life in Florida. We offer an alternative option to taking a taxi or the university organized transport from the airport. A friendly volunteer from International Friendships can welcome you at the airport no matter the time of your arrival, assist you with your luggage, and provide transportation to campus, your apartment, or your host home. Our volunteers can also provide up to four days of temporary housing. Staying with a host will give you an opportunity to make a new friend, learn more about Gainesville from a local resident, enjoy a home-cooked meal, and receive assistance during your first few days in a new place.