Dear Host Family, My name is Ricarda, and I'm a German student excited about the opportunity to spend a year with you in America. Currently, I live with my mom in a lovely flat. Despite my parents being separated, we have a strong bond and often spend our holidays together. My dad recently became a teacher, while my mom works as an occupational therapist. They’re both really qualified, love their jobs and inspire me to pursue such a fulfilling career in the future. I attend a Gymnasium, equivalent to high school in America, where I'm in 10th grade. I have a huge interest in languages, particularly English, Spanish, and French. This passion led me to go to a language-focused school. I love learning new vocabulary and helping friends and family with translations during our travels:) In my free time , I find joy in activities like running, listening to music and meeting my friends. I also love spending quality time with my family by cooking together, watching sports and traveling especially with my aunt. I'm an open-minded person always down to try new things and I would love to find out what you guys like to do in your free time and share or discover new interests. My favourite things of all time are beaches, music, shopping and being around fun people while sharing laughs. Though I have responsibilities like chores and a curfew, I don't consider my parents strict. I appreciate the freedoms they offer me while understanding the importance of rules as I got older. Off course I’m ready to adapt to your household's guidelines during my stay in America. America has always amazed me since I first saw it on television at a young age and it has left me impressed ever since. The great variety of landscapes, the culture and traditions but mostly how big everything is. I have never been to America so my image probably consists of many stereotypes and that's why I'm also thrilled to see sides of America which I didn't know about already Not only do I want to discover the country, I also want to make new friends and experience the typical high school life which most of us German students find very fascinating since its a lot different from our school system here. I hope this letter provides insight into who I am, and I’m thrilled to meet you and start this exciting journey together. See you soon! Warm regards, Ricarda