Student Frequently Asked Questions

How do I become a member of the Host Family Program?
In order to become a member of the Cal Maritime Host Family Program, you must fill out the online Student application - Host Family Program. The Host Family Program Staff will process your application as quickly as possible, including a background check. Upon approval of your application, every effort will be made to match you with the best possible Community Host based on simliar interests.

What are my responsibilities as Host Family Program member?

As a student of the California State University Maritime Academy, you are expected to act as a mature adult and future Maritime Officer and/or Business Professional. Only the highest standards of personal behavior, etiquette, and accountability are acceptable. During Orientation you will be made aware of campus rules and should therefore not place a Community Host in any pressured situations regarding these rules -- do not put your Community Host in a position where he/she must question or confront you on any issue dealing with student regulations. Your Community Host will outline his/her policies for their home. If you are uncertain, please ask!

You are also encouraged to keep Community Hosts involved in Cal Maritime activities and to express your appreciation for a Community Host's generosity. Never take advantage of your Community Host, nor take them for granted -- they are volunteers of this program.

What are my Community Host's responsibilities?
Community Hosts will offer friendship, understanding and encouragement to you, as an incoming freshmen during your demanding first year at Cal Maritime. Community Hosts are meant to provide a local "family connection" for you and should help you learn more about the area so that you may experience the many positive aspects that the town of Vallejo, Solano County and the Bay Area have to offer. After applying, all Community Hosts will have a background check and undergo training in order for them to understand their roles and responsiblities.

Is the Host Family Program open only to freshmen or can I remain a member as an upperclassman?
The program is designed for incoming freshmen, however we encourage and support the idea that many of you may want to continue your relationship with your Community Host until graduation, and even beyond.

What are the rules regarding alcohol?
California State Law prohibits the sale or consumption of alcoholic beverages to anyone under 21 years of age. This restriction extends to you within a Community Host's home. You and your Community Host must understand that the consequences for the under age consumption of alcohol are severe.

What are the rules regarding transportation?
Since many freshmen will not have a vehicle on campus, you may ride in vehicles owned by authorized Community Hosts, staff and faculty members, and upperclass students who are properly licensed and insured. All Community Hosts are required to have a valid California Driver's License on file with the Host Family Program Office.

What should I do if I have a problem with my Community Host?
Keep in mind that all Community Hosts are not alike, so your experience at your Host's home will probably differ from your classmates' experience. But if you genuinely feel that your differences cannot be overcome by open and honest communication, please contact the Host Family Program Office at Cal Maritime. The HFP Office will be able to assist you in resolving any problem that might arise and/or reassigning you to another more appropriate Community Host. The office phone number is (707) 654-1412.

Will my Community Host be in touch with my family?
Hopefully, but only after you have met and you authorize them to do so. During Orientation there will be an opportunity for you, your family and your Community Host to connect and get to know each other. We hope that you will become an extension of your Community Host's family and that they will become an extension of yours. However, we do encourage all involved to set boundaries and be clear about the extent of contact preferred.

Program Specialist, Community Engaged Learning Center

JoEllen P. Myslik
jmyslik@csum.edu
Mayo Hall, Room 204