Oleksandr
's Letter
Dear Future Host Family,
Hello! My name is Alex. First, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for opening your home and considering hosting me. The opportunity to be part of an American family, to share your daily life, and to learn from you is a dream.
I would love to tell you a little about who I am. I am a person deeply curious about how things work. This curiosity started in childhood with Lego and robotics—I even competed with a team in an international robotics competition in Denmark. That experience taught me about teamwork, creative problem-solving, and the excitement of turning ideas into reality.
That passion for building and understanding mechanics has grown with me. My biggest personal project has been restoring two classic motorcycles. Finding them, taking them completely apart, repairing the engines, and rewiring them by hand has been an incredible journey. It’s more than a hobby; it’s a puzzle where every bolt and wire has a story and a purpose. I’m even writing a research paper on the restoration process. This hands-on work has taught me patience, resilience, and a deep appreciation for craftsmanship. I dream of studying engineering one day, perhaps to work on the future of automobiles or even in motorsports, which I follow passionately.
My life at home has taught me the value of family and responsibility. I have a wonderful younger brother, and I cherish the bond we share - whether exploring new places together or simply being there for each other. We also have family pets, and I have a special connection with our cat, who showed incredible strength during a very difficult time. These experiences have shown me what it means to care for others and to never give up.
I know you might be wondering about my life in recent years. It’s true, studying and pursuing my interests has been challenging amidst the realities of war. Between power outages, air raids, and the constant stress, focusing has been difficult. But these challenges have also strengthened my spirit. They have taught me to adapt, to find light in dark moments - often through music on my guitar, a swim at the pool, or the focus of skiing down a slope - and to never take a peaceful day for granted. It has made me even more determined to learn, grow, and contribute positively wherever I am.
Beyond engineering, I love to play the guitar, swim, and ski. I am also studying Spanish and German and would be thrilled to practice them. I enjoy cooking, especially traditional dishes from my country, and I would be honored to make one for you.
Most of all, I want you to know that I see this exchange not as being a guest, but as becoming a temporary family member. I am ready to fully participate in your life: to help with chores, share conversations, support your children, and learn your traditions, while also sharing my own stories and culture with you. I am responsible, respectful, and arrive with an open heart and a grateful spirit.
Thank you again for considering me. I am so excited by the possibility of meeting you, learning from you, and contributing to your family’s story.
With hope and warmth,
Alex