How to Build a Great Relationship with your Student
Moments like this show that hosting a student is not just about accommodation—it is about connection.
Creating Trust, Communication, And Connection At Home
Hosting an international student is not just about providing meals and a room—it is about welcoming someone into your everyday life and making them feel part of it. A strong relationship between host and student makes the experience more meaningful and enjoyable for both sides. Whether you are naturally outgoing or a bit more reserved, building that bond is easier than you might think.
In this post, we share simple, effective ways to create a warm, trusting relationship with your student, no matter where they come from—Germany, Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, the Nordic countries, or France.
1. Start with openness and curiosity
Every student arrives with a different background, personality, and level of confidence. Some will be eager to chat, while others may be quiet at first. The key is to meet them where they are—with warmth, curiosity, and no pressure. Ask about their hometown, their family, or what they are looking forward to in Ireland. A few open-ended questions can open the door to connection.
2. Set a friendly tone from day one
The first few days matter most. A calm, friendly atmosphere helps the student feel relaxed and welcome. Let them know they can come to you with any questions—big or small. Invite them to join in daily routines like meals or outings, without insisting. Simply making them feel included without expectation can build trust quickly.
3. Balance support with space
Students aged 17 to 25 are usually quite independent, but they still benefit from a guiding presence—especially when navigating a new city, language, and culture. Offer help with practical things (like understanding bus routes or finding the right shop), but also respect their independence. Giving them freedom to explore while knowing you are there when needed is a balance that builds confidence and mutual respect.
4. Create shared moments
Some of the best connections are made during everyday moments: cooking together, watching a film, or going for a short walk. These low-pressure, shared experiences allow conversations to happen naturally. It does not have to be anything special—just inviting them to be part of your day shows that you value their presence. These small gestures can go a long way.
5. Be mindful of communication styles
If your student seems quiet or unsure at first, do not assume they are disinterested. They might simply be processing a lot of new information or feeling shy about their English. Speak clearly, listen attentively, and be patient. Encouragement, gentle corrections, and a calm tone help students build language confidence and feel more at ease over time.
6. Share your own culture and listen to theirs
Cultural exchange is one of the most enriching aspects of hosting. Share Irish customs, music, meals, or local stories—and ask about theirs in return. You might be surprised by how much you both learn. These conversations deepen connection and help students feel seen and valued for who they are.
7. Handle misunderstandings with kindness
Even in the best host-student relationships, there may be small miscommunications or cultural differences. Try not to take things personally. Instead, approach these moments with patience and a sense of humour. Most issues are quickly resolved through a calm chat and a willingness to understand one another’s perspective.
8. Check in—without hovering
As the weeks pass, it is helpful to check in occasionally: “How are things going?” or “Is there anything you need?” These small moments of attention show that you care, without being overbearing. Students often feel more comfortable opening up when they know you are genuinely interested in how they are doing.
9. Celebrate their growth
As the student becomes more confident and familiar with daily life, celebrate their progress. Whether it is their first successful conversation at the shop or mastering a tricky bus route, acknowledging their efforts boosts their confidence and strengthens your bond.
10. Keep in touch (if you want to)
Many host families and students stay in contact long after the programme ends. If the experience has been positive, do not be surprised if you receive a thank-you message months later—or even an invitation to visit their home country. These ongoing connections are one of the most beautiful outcomes of hosting.
There is no single formula for building a great relationship with your student. Every host and every guest is different. But what matters most is kindness, patience, and a genuine willingness to connect. When those things are present, the relationship grows naturally—and often leaves a lasting impression on both sides.
If you are curious about hosting, check out our other blog posts or sign up to become a host family. We would love to hear from you!