Dear host family, my name is Luiza and I am starting my second year of high school. I live with my mother, my father, my brother, and my dog, to whom I am very attached and who is part of our family and our daily routine; we are a united, close, and very present family in everyday life, something I consider essential to who I am today. I am a curious person and I really enjoy learning through new experiences; I like going out, being with my friends, and enjoying moments outside of my routine, whether talking, walking around, or simply spending time together. At first I am a little shy, but as I become more comfortable, I become communicative, close, and I open up easily; I am affectionate and I truly value the relationships I build. I have a big dream of getting to know other places in the world, and I believe that living in different cultures, learning about new realities, and spending time with people from other places is very important for personal growth. I really enjoy traveling, and the beach is a special place for me because it brings me calm, helps me reflect, and allows me to recharge my energy. My family plays a very important role in my life; my mother is my best friend, she knows almost everything about me and is always present during important moments. I have a brother and I am very close to him; even with the age difference, I really enjoy having someone in my family with whom I can share moments, talk, and grow together. My mother enjoys traveling, cooking, and taking care of the plants we have at home, such as flowers, trees, and our vegetable garden, and my father likes watching sports on television, especially soccer, loves barbecuing, and also enjoys drinking chimarrão. I like to stay active and take care of my well-being; over the years I have practiced volleyball, tennis, handball, and swimming, and currently I go to the gym and play beach tennis, activities that are part of my routine and make me feel good. Regarding my fears, I am a little afraid of wild animals such as frogs, toads, snakes, iguanas, and similar animals, and I thought it was important to share this so you can get to know me better. As for food, I am an easygoing person and eat almost everything; the only food I do not really like is beans, even though it is a traditional Brazilian dish, but aside from that I have no difficulties with food and I am open to trying new dishes. Regarding my studies, I am dedicated and already think about my future; I want to get into a public university and pursue a career in the health field, such as medicine or dentistry, because I really enjoy biology and am interested in learning how the human body works. I decided to do an exchange program because I believe this experience will help me mature, gain independence, and learn how to deal with responsibilities away from my family before college; I want to experience the country’s daily routine, learn about the customs, participate in traditions, and learn by truly living with a new family. I am also a Catholic Christian and usually go to church on Sundays; faith is part of my life and my values, guiding my actions with respect and empathy. I am sure that the exchange program will be a transformative experience and that I will make the most of it with responsibility, dedication, and care, and I am very happy about the possibility of being part of your family and sharing special moments together.