Dear Host Family,

My name is Isabel, and I am 16 years old. I live in Italy with my family: my mother, my father, my older brothers, Raphael and Michelangelo (who now lives in the United States), and our little dog, Lola. During the week, we don’t have as much time together because I’m at school and my parents are at work, so we make an effort to spend quality time together on weekends. We enjoy going out for lunch, having big Sunday lunches at home.

I would describe myself as a cheerful, understanding, polite, and adaptable person. I value my personal space and enjoy quiet time to relax. Ideally, I would prefer to have my own room. While I can be reserved initially, I can also be very sociable. I love to laugh and talk with people. I consider myself to be sensitive, as I can be affected by things happening around me.

I’ve been dancing since I was three years old and continue to do so. I also enjoy learning new sports, listening to music, and cooking. When I’m alone, I like to care for myself, whether by watching podcasts, doing my makeup, or organizing my room. I often go to the movie theater and spend time with my friends. Some of my favorite foods are sushi (which I eat whenever I can!), supplì (an Italian fried rice ball), pasta, rice, and chicken. I enjoy trying unique and healthy dishes. My family traveled a lot when I was younger, and we still try to travel whenever possible. My mother and I especially love exploring new places, and we try to plan trips throughout the year and during summer vacations. Because we have many relatives living in other parts of Italy and around the world, we often visit them. We celebrate both Christian and Jewish holidays together, such as decorating the Christmas tree and lighting the Hanukkah candles.

I expect this experience to be an invaluable opportunity for personal growth. I look forward to learning how to be more independent and mature. I understand it won’t always be easy, but I believe it will be a wonderful adventure. I hope to integrate quickly with your family and make new friends. I also hope to share my culture and traditions with you as well as learn about yours.