Hi, I’m Mara, I’m 16 years old and I’m from the Netherlands. I would like to go on an exchange to America next summer. I’m going on an exchange because I would like to experience something different than a Dutch school and environment. I find America an interesting country because it is very different from where I live and go to school now. I currently follow several people who are now on exchange in the USA and their stories make me want to experience a high school year and all the activities that come with it. I’m also looking forward to making new friends. I have been on vacation to America with my family, so the country is not entirely new to me.

I live at home with my parents and older brother in a village. I like doing things with them. I especially enjoy the family vacations. Last year we went to France and Italy. I especially like Italy because I am a quarter Italian. My grandfather comes from there. Unfortunately, I don’t speak Italian. I have a good relationship with my parents. I also like being with my brother, we don’t differ much in age. I like playing cards and board games together.

A little bit about myself, I am creative. I like making things like designing my nails, playing Sims4 or sewing clothes myself. I am very perfectionistic in that. I am also helpful and friendly, which helps a lot with my part-time job as a gymnastics teacher assistant. I am also quite competitive and sporty, I like doing a lot of sports. I play field hockey and gymnastics here. I have a hockey match every weekend and 1 hour of training per week. I go to gymnastics training for 4.5 hours a week. I only have 2 competitions a year. But I like to do or try everything, such as horse riding or volleyball. I am curious and always want to do new things. According to my family, I also need some attention and talk a lot, which can sometimes make me a bit direct. Another thing about me. I am a picky eater, I don’t really like dinner or eating out. My favorite dinner is pokebowl. But I do like cookies and snacks a lot.

I hope this gives a good idea of who I am and why I’m so eager to go on an exchange to America. I’m really looking forward to seizing this unique opportunity and having an unforgettable time!