Why should I host a Dinner for 12 Strangers?

Are you still hesitant to host?  We think you'll change your mind after you get some more encouragement from us:

"I live too far from campus"

We would like hosts to be within a 30-minute drive from Amherst or Buffalo, but even if you're one of our beloved alumni outside of this area, you have other options! Consider co-hosting a dinner at another person's home.  We can match you up with someone who needs assistance, or you can call up an old classmate that lives in the area.  Don't rule out a restaurant or campus locations either.  Many places have private rooms you can use if necessary.

"I don't think I could squeeze 12 guests into my dining room…or house for that matter."

No problem.  If your dining room is too small (or you don't have even have one), consider going the more casual route with a buffet and casual seating.  If you still are uncomfortable with 12, make it a "Dinner for 6 or 8."  Let us know how many you can accommodate and we will try to work with you on it.

"I'm not exactly a world class chef- students might prefer campus dining to my cooking"

Students love free food.  Don't feel obligated to go gourmet if you’re better at the classics.  If you can't cook at all, order in!  There is nothing wrong with catering, party platters, or a take-out dinner theme.  All we ask is that you keep in mind that there could be vegetarians.

"I can't possibly prepare a dinner after a long day's work"

We thought of that too! SO, we scheduled all the dinners on Saturdays or Sundays, and you can name your own start time!  We suggest 6 p.m., but feel free to start a little earlier or later.  Just keep in mind that the typical dinner lasts 2-3 hours.

"I am way too busy."

That's why we gave you so many options. Are you really busy all three nights? Don't forget, you can ask for help and make the evening much less hectic.  Call up an old friend, or get a family member to help…after all, how many opportunities will you have to connect with students in the comfort of your own home as well as convince them not only how great it is to be a member of the UB community but the WNY community?

"I don't think I can do all that work"

Let's be realistic.  Most planning is covered by the Alumni Relations staff and students of the University Student Alumni Board (USAB), the student organization of the Alumni Association. We already have the dates, the location (your house), and the guests.  All you have to do is specify a few details and feed the students.  Plus we can provide you with some tips and conversation starters.

"I’m not from the Western New York area"

Not a problem!  Good news - there are two options for you: 

Option 1: If you live in an area of high UB student concentration (like Syracuse, Rochester, Long Island) why not plan one during a student break?  Most planning is covered by the Alumni Relations staff and students of the University Student Alumni Board (USAB), the student organization of the Alumni Association. We already have the dates, the location (your house), and the guests.  All you have to do is specify a few details and feed the students. 

Option 2:  As a UB graduate living outside of New York State, there is not a large enough concentration of current UB students in your area to hold a standard alumni-student Dinner for 12 gathering.  However, you can certainly hold a Dinner for 12 Strangers with UB alumni who live near you. If this format is of interest, contact Patty Starr in the Alumni Relations Office for information on how the UB Office of Alumni Relations can assist, along with expectations of a dinner host.  

"Alright, I'm out of concerns…but what now?"
Become a host today!  Contact Patty Starr