It is way too often that I hear people complaining about how they went to visit a friend at another college, but their host was not accommodating whatsoever. This is something I believe we need to put an end to because I definitely can relate to being the host and the guest.
The purpose of this article I have prepared for you readers is about how to be a great host because honestly it's not that hard.
1. Plan activities for the day time.
When you have a visitor, they want to be entertained. They don't want to sit around bored, watching Netflix with you all day when the sun is shining outside. Think of creative activities to do during the day such as going to the mall, bringing your friend to class with you, going to a local pool to tan and swim, etc. From personal experience, I know it's not fun to sit around doing nothing, especially at someone else's school.
2. Make reservations at well-known, local restaurants.
Every college town has their staple restaurants that tourists absolutely love. When you have visitors, they definitely don't want to go to Chipotle or some fast food joint they already have at their school. Give them the full experience and take them somewhere new and delicious.
3. Create a "Going Out Plan."
Nothing is worse than having no going out plan for the night time. It gets everyone very chaotic and stressed. Before your friends come, figure out what clubs/parties you plan on taking them to and what times these events are at. This way, there will be some organization to your plans.
4. Give a tour of your school.
I love touring my friend's college campuses when I am visiting their schools. Every school is so unique and beautiful that I promise your guests will love walking around. I love bringing my friends to the UF stadium, AKA "The Swamp," to take pictures.
5. Don't get belligerent when you're out.
When you have visitors, it is all about making sure they have a good time. If you party a little too hard, your visitors will not feel comfortable. They didn't come to visit you just to take care of you all night.
6. Stick with your visitors at the club.
This is extremely important. I know it is hard to stick with one person when you go to a frat party or club, but your visitors do not know anyone else. You can't leave them when you see other people you know. I'm not saying that you have to babysit your visitors, but make sure to include them and make sure they have fun.
7. Introduce them to all of your friends.
Introduce your visitors to all of your friends when they come to visit. As your home friends, they would love to see the life you've created at your new school with an entirely different friend group. Make your guests feel welcome and wanted.
If you follow these steps, I guarantee your guests will have a great time. They are visiting you because they want to have some fun; they want to explore your college campus and meet everyone that has made your college experience so amazing.
