Dear Host Family,

My name is Anna, I’m from a large city in northern Italy, and I’m so excited for the opportunity to spend next year in your country! I live with my parents and my older sister. We’re a close family and love spending time together, whether we’re chatting about our day, watching shows, or laughing about something that happened with friends. My mom is a high school teacher and helps me a lot with school—especially with Latin! My dad works in the oil and gas industry, which meant we lived abroad in Mozambique and Abu Dhabi. Thanks to that, I became fluent in English and got used to adapting to new environments.

Currently, we’re back in Italy so I can finish school, while my dad works abroad and visits home monthly. When he’s in town, I love riding on his motorbike to school—so much that I’ve started working toward my own license. I’ve always wanted a dog, but since we live in an apartment on the 8th floor, I understand why it wasn’t possible.

I’m a social and positive person, and I enjoy being around others. I can be a bit shy at first, but I warm up quickly. I’ve always had many friends and I’m not worried about making new ones, even in a new place. I love music, especially listening to it while doing my makeup or commuting, and I enjoy watching movies and series—Money Heist is my all-time favorite! I also like trying new recipes, even if I’m not the best cook.

In Abu Dhabi, I swam competitively with both school and local teams. Back in Italy, I switched to gymnastics with a friend. I’m not as good at it, but I enjoy staying active and trying new things. During the week, I spend time with friends and my boyfriend. On weekends, we often have group dinners at someone’s house and hang out. One of my favorite family traditions is watching The Simpsons after lunch—a simple routine that makes me feel cozy and happy.

Summer is my favorite season: the beach, no school, friends, and long sunny days. Last summer, I volunteered at a local summer camp as an animator. I loved spending time with kids and getting to know the other volunteers.

I’ve always dreamed of visiting the U.S. After watching so many American teen movies, I’m really curious to see what high school life is actually like—from going to prom to joining a sports team. Italian schools are more rigid and formal, so I’m excited for a different approach and a chance to make strong connections with classmates and teachers. I know it won’t always be easy being away from home, but I’m ready to take on the challenge and grow from it.

Thank you so much for opening your home to me—I’m so looking forward to meeting you and starting this incredible journey!

Best regards,

Anna