Experience a Warm Welcome and Comprehensive Support 

David and Karen Etchells, owners of this beautiful home on Pleasant Street in Willimantic, Connecticut, hosted international high school students in their own home for seven years. Since their daughter has now graduated from high school, they no longer host high school students, but they provide international UConn graduate students with a unique and supportive apartment rental experience in their fully furnished guest rooms.

Located diagonally across from the iconic Willimantic Frog Bridge, the apartment provides a comfortable and secure living environment tailored to meet the needs of international students coming to the USA for the first time.

Personalized Services to Help You Settle In

We understand that moving to a new country can be overwhelming. That’s why David and Karen offer a comprehensive suite of services designed to help you feel at home from the moment you arrive. Our goal is to ensure you have a smooth transition and a comfortable stay.

Airport Pickup and Welcome Tour

David and Karen will pick you up from the airport for a reasonable fee and bring you directly to your new home, a short walk to the bus stop for UConn. Upon arrival, they will give you a detailed walk-through tour of the apartment, introduce you to your roommates, and demonstrate how to use all the appliances, electronics, stove, oven, dishwasher, and TV. Using a translator App (if needed), they will also review all house rules to make sure you feel comfortable and informed.

Local Area Orientation

To help you get acquainted with your new surroundings, we will provide a driving tour of the local area. We’ll show you where to catch the bus to UConn, visit nearby grocery stores, and stop by Walmart for any additional supplies you might need. We’ll also show you where you can put your groceries and supplies in the apartment.