Community Host FAQs

How do I become a Community Host? 
In order to become a Community Host to a Cal Maritime student, you must fill out the Community Host Application and submit it to the Host Family Program Office. Eligible applicants will be at least 28 years of age and live within a 25 miles radius of the Cal Maritime campus.  The HFP Staff will process your application as quickly as possible, including a background check. Upon approval of your application, every effort will be made to make the best possible match between Community Hosts and students based on similar interests.

As a Community Host what can I do for my student and what is expected from me?
Community Hosts provide friendship, understanding and encouragement to incoming freshmen during what can be a demanding first year at Cal Maritime. Community Hosts are meant to provide a local "family connection" for students and should help them learn more about Vallejo so that they may experience the many positive aspects that the town, Solano County and the Bay Area have to offer. After applying, all Community Hosts will have a background check and undergo approximately 2 hours of training on campus.

What are my cadet's responsibilities?
Students are expected to act as mature adults and future Maritime Officers and Business Professionals. Only the highest standards of personal behavior, etiquette, and accountability are acceptable. Students are aware of the rules and policies to which they are subject and should not place a Community Host in any pressured situations regarding campus rules. Students are also encouraged to keep Community Hosts involved in Cal Maritime activities and to express their appreciation for a Community Host's generosity.

Does the Host Family Program only apply to incoming freshmen or can I remain matched with the same student until graduation?
The program is designed for incoming freshmen, however we encourage and support the idea that many families may want to continue their relationship with their cadet until graduation.  Additionally, we hope that the connectons made create lifelong friendships.  We also hope that Hosts are willing to be matched with new freshmen each academic year.

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

What are the rules regarding transportation of students?
Most freshmen are not authorized to have a vehicle on campus (*unless special permission has been obtained). They may ride in vehicles owned by authorized Community Hosts, staff and faculty members, and upperclass students who are properly licensed and insured.

What should I do if I have a problem with my student?
Should you experience a problem with your student, please contact the Host Family Program Office at the California State University Maritime Academy. The HFP Office will be able to assist you in resolving any problem that might arise. The office phone number is (707) 654-1412.

Can I contact my student's parents?
We request that you do not contact your student's parents until your student has authorized you to do so. There will be an opportunity during Orientation in August for you to meet your matched student and their family. It is our hope that your student will become an extension of your family and that you will become an extension of theirs. 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