Ronoh Jepkemei ‘20, Kenya
When I first travelled to Vermont from Boston, I took the bus and a friend, Gilbert, asked Annette to pick me up at the bus stop. I was in Vermont for a couple days before my official orientation at Middlebury College started so the Franklins hosted me for those days. Staying at their house was amazing. So much so that one month later, when the college was matching international students to their host families, I requested the ISSS to match me with the Franklins. I believed that they would continue showing me the kind of love and support that they had shown from the day Annette picked me up and true to my thoughts, I’m glad to say it’s been like that four years later.
From airport pick ups and drop offs to playing card games after scrumptious family dinners, the Franklins have outdone themselves. They have been more than a host family to me. I consider their house my home here in the States. I can always talk to Annette about anything. She’s such a warm person with a kind soul. One time when I was admitted at the hospital, Annette spent the night with me. Occasionally when I had colds in college she’d make me some warm soup and buy me cough drops. Annette read and edited my statement of purpose for my graduate school application. Annette gets me lipstick, socks…such a mom!
I love coming to the house because it feels like home. Tim always has the bonfire going. He’s such a gentleman. He listens a lot and he’s very supportive, not just to us international students but to his family. I admire that a lot about him. I love the kids too, especially Emma and little G. I consider them my younger sisters that I never had. Staying with them in 2020 during the pandemic helped me grow and become a better person: there’s a lot to learn and unlearn when you’ve always been the lastborn but now you play big sister. The House is a special organization that has the interests of international students at heart. All my best friends have positive things to say about their stay in the house. The love the Franklins have shown to all of us is immeasurable.
Blessed is the hand that gives. Thank you to the House for all the immense love and support. God bless you! ~Ronoh Jepkemei, Eldoret, Kenya, Class of 2020
