Dear future host family, Hi! My name is Ashleigh. Writing this letter I am actually starting to realise that this is actually happening. I cannot describe how excited, but also scared I am to start this new chapter of my life. I could have never imagined that I am now here, getting the opportunity to experience the American culture and lifestyle like a local. I would describe myself as a bit more of an introvert, but as soon as I get comfortable, I am a very social person who will most likely never stop talking. Something I really like is helping people and making them laugh and feel comfortable with me. I am also prepared to step out of my comfort zone and say yes as much as possible when new experiences come my way. When it comes to school I make sure I finish everything on time, and I take it seriously while of course still having fun. I live with my parents, Mark and Maggie, and my little sister Emma (10). I also have a cat, her name is Luna, she is also 10 years old. When I’m not at school or busy with it, I also have other hobbies. I play soccer at my local soccer club, I absolutely love playing soccer and I would love to play it in the US. Soccer is quite a big part of my life, I have made so many friends because of soccer and I love them so much. I also have a job, I work at the sushi restaurant in my town. On average I work about twice a week, about 4 to 5 hours each shift. I really enjoy working there, I work as a server, and I like working with my colleagues. Something else I like doing in my free time is shopping and spending time with my friends and family. On a normal school day I wake up at about 7:15. I leave for school at about 8:45. My roster is different every day. As soon as I get home I eat something and talk to my parents about my day. Sometimes I work on Tuesdays, it really depends on the roster. I play soccer on Mondays, Wednesdays and I have soccer matches almost every Saturday. Right now we are at the top of our league, and there is a big chance we can become champions. The reason why I chose to do an exchange is of course because of the experience. But if I had to tell you the actual reason it is because I want to get to know myself better and I want to test my limits. I feel like my whole life has been set up until now, primary school was chosen for me and high school was mandatory. I now want to explore for myself what's more out there. The other reasons are of course to experience a different culture and hopefully experience the american high school life. I am very excited to become a part of your family, and I hope we can learn lots of things from each other. I am also looking forward to making new memories that will last forever. See you soon!! Kind regards, Ashleigh