Fathir
's Letter
Dear Host Family,
I am very happy to introduce myself to you. I am the oldest son of three siblings. My first younger brother is currently studying in high school, and my second sibling is a younger sister who is still in elementary school. Although I am a boarding school student and rarely have time at home, we are a very close family and enjoy spending time together.
We usually spend our weekends cooking and going on vacations, both locally and out of town. In my free time, my family and I like to explore new places or visit restaurants in the city. Because I am a boarding student, I am responsible for taking care of my younger siblings during school breaks when my parents are working. I feel proud to be able to help my family during those times.
As a boarding student with limited access to gadgets like phones and computers, I often fill my free time with reading. Initially, I read just to pass the time. However, over time, I realized that reading has become an essential part of my life. This activity not only entertains me but also enriches my knowledge and imagination.
My love for reading has led me to explore various genres, from fiction novels to biographies of inspiring figures. Each book I read opens a new window and offers a different perspective on the world. From this, I have come to understand that reading can develop empathy and understanding of different backgrounds and human experiences.
My interest in literacy doesn't stop there. With the numerous reading references I have, I feel inspired to start writing. In ninth grade, I decided to collaborate with a friend to write a book. This process was invaluable we shared ideas, discussed the plot, and provided constructive feedback to each other. The pinnacle of our writing journey occurred in 2024 when our book was published. That moment was very proud, not only because our work was accepted by the public but also because we started earning income from book sales. The money we earned became a motivation for me to continue creating and further developing my writing skills.
Overall, my interests in reading and writing shape who I am today. They complement each other, giving me tools to express myself and explore new ideas. I hope to continue developing these interests by sharing stories that can inspire others from my experiences in America if selected.
As a boarding student, I have friends from various backgrounds. This has taught me a lot about understanding others and different cultures. We often exchange cultural insights from our respective regions, enriching our experiences.
...My city is a small town in a province where my parents migrated to work, and our family has settled since I was young. Although there are no large malls or cinemas, this town offers a calm and comfortable atmosphere, along with many friends who make every corner precious. The diversity of the community has taught me to appreciate differences and create a harmonious environment that I always miss while being a boarding school student.
After graduating from high school, I plan to continue my education at the best public university, majoring in law. After completing my studies in law, I also intend to pursue a master's degree in international relations. The combination of these two fields will provide me with a deep understanding of legal principles and global policy analysis, which is vital in diplomacy. Additionally, the communication and negotiation skills I gain from both areas will prepare me to face various challenges on the international stage. With these advantages, I believe I can excel in achieving my dream career as a diplomat and contribute positively to international relations.
Through this exchange experience, I hope to broaden my understanding of the world and learn about new cultures. I want to engage in your daily activities, improve my English skills, and explore the local culture. I also hope to form friendships with new people, who can provide different perspectives. Most importantly, I want to bring back all these valuable experiences to Indonesia and share them with my family and friends, inspiring them to appreciate cultural diversity. I am particularly excited to try local dishes and learn how to cook traditional recipes from your region. Food has always been a way for me to connect with others, and I believe sharing meals can strengthen our bond.
I would like to express my gratitude for this wonderful opportunity to be part of your family. I greatly appreciate your hospitality and welcome. I promise to respect your family's traditions and values during my stay. I look forward to learning from your life experiences, sharing stories, and building a close relationship. May we create beautiful memories together that I will take back to Indonesia.
Thank you for your attention, and I eagerly await the adventure that lies ahead!
Warm regards.
Fathir