As the quarter draws to a close, students begin to ponder their options for winter break. While the majority of students will spend the break with their families in their hometowns, many international students must spend the break in Athens.

When the residence halls close, international students who cannot go home spend the holidays with American families in a host program through Christmas International House.

Christmas International House is a national program sponsored by churches and community organizations, which are funded by voluntary local contributions.

Students participating in the program are placed with American families in cities ranging from Jamaica, N.Y., to Austin, Texas.

"This is one of the best opportunities students will have to learn about the American culture and family," said David Tilahun, associate director of the International Student and Faculty Services office.

The strength of the program is the cross-cultural learning that occurs between students and their host families. Students are encouraged to bring items representative of their country, such as traditional clothing and pictures.

"It's one of the best cultural exchanges that doesn't look for anything in exchange except for an open heart and open mind and a desire to learn from one another," Tilahun said.

Sophomore Sanni Kee and junior Christy Lai, both from Hong Kong, applied to participate in the program together and found out they have been placed in Sarasota, Fla. Both requested Florida because of the mild weather and opportunity to visit beaches.

Kee said she wants to learn more about the American family and people through Christmas International House.

"I would like to make friends with them and learn more about how they think and their culture," Kee said.

While Lai said she would like to learn more about the American family, she also said she is looking forward to teaching her host family about Hong Kong.

Christmas International House begins Dec. 19 and ends Jan. 2. To be eligible, students must be international students or scholars, at least 18 years old and enrolled in a U.S. college or university. The application deadline is Dec. 1. There is a pre-registration fee of $50. Students are responsible for transportation to and from their designated location. Applications are still available at the International Student and Faculty Services office.

- Jennifer Kossick
contributed to this story.