This page will help guide you through the Homestay experience in Bozeman and surrounding areas.

Greetings

Bozeman is a very casual community and has many casual, but friendly greetings. It is generally acceptable to shake hands when meeting a new person or greeting one you may already know. Some people will be comfortable with hugging as a greeting or farewell once they know you on a personal basis.

Phrases

You may hear a variety of unfamiliar phrases when you are in your homestay. One of the most common phrases will be, “Make yourself at home.” What this means is you are free to be comfortable in the home as you might in your own home. However, be respectable of personal items and clean up after yourself if you make a mess. Another common phrase you may hear is, “Help yourself to anything in the kitchen/fridge.” What this means is you are welcome to take items from the kitchen to eat or drink unless otherwise stated. If you are ever unsure or have any questions, homestay families are happy to answer or help you if they can.

Around the American Household

Some spaces or rooms around the household are private while others are free for you to enter. Generally, bedrooms are private spaces that you are not to enter. Most other rooms are free for you to enter and encouraged when the family is present. In most American homes, if a door is closed it means do not enter. When a bathroom is not occupied, most families will leave the door open to signify it is available. If you have any questions about the home or household “rules” your host will be happy to answer them.

Pets

Many Bozeman families have pets (dogs, cats, birds, other!) and often treat them as part of the family. If you are uncomfortable around animals please let the staff and homestay families know. Household pets are typically gentle and if you want to be left alone ignore the animal. Do not run away or use physical force again the pet as this may cause problems. 

Laundry

American families vary in how they clean their clothes, but typically only do laundry about once a week. If you need to clean your clothes or other help, please ask your host for assistance.