Dear Host Family, Thank you for taking the time to read my letter. I am very excited about the chance to spend half a year in the United States. Even though we have not met, I am very thankful that a family is willing to welcome me into their home. My name is Michael, I am in 10th grade in Germany. I would describe myself as calm, open and helpful. I am also respectful and reliable. My friends would probably say that I am someone you can trust and that I stay relaxed in most situations. I am not the loudest person, but I enjoy spending time together and having good talks. I live with my mom and my 16-year-old sister. We are close and spend a lot of time together. We celebrate holidays like Christmas and Easter. In winter, we sometimes go to Christmas markets, which are very popular in Germany. I would love to share some German traditions with you. In my free time, I like going to the gym and doing sports. I also enjoy playing chess and listening to music. Sometimes I read a book or meet my friends. After school, I usually do my homework, go to the gym, or just relax. I am part of the student council at my school, where I help with small projects and activities. I have also been on school trips without my parents, for example skiing in Austria and visiting Berlin. That helped me become more independent. I want to go to an American high school because I want to see something new and experience a different school system. I am especially interested in school sports and clubs. I would like to try something new, maybe football, basketball, or another sport. I am open to new experiences and want to grow during this time. In the future, I would like to study at university, maybe law, but I am still thinking about it. I believe this exchange will help me become more confident and independent. As a host son, I will respect your rules and help in the house. I am used to doing chores like washing the dishes or taking out the trash. I will do my best to fit into your family and be more than just a guest. I am really looking forward to meeting you and spending a great time together. Warm regards, Michael