First of all, I want to thank you for welcoming me into your home and giving me the chance of becoming part of your family for one entire year. I know this is a unique opportunity, I’m really grateful to have the chance to live in your country, learn the American culture and build a relationship with you. I can’t wait to discover your family and to know you better. Since I was young, I have always wanted to be an exchange student. My dad has had many experiences abroad, and he always encouraged me to do so. I have always dreamed about going to the United States, it's the country that fascinates me the most. To me, being an exchange student means not only learning the language but also getting to know a different culture and becoming a part of a second family. I really believe that after having lived together for a year, we will have created a bond that will last forever. And who knows, maybe afterwards you'll come visit us in Italy. There are four of us in my family: my dad, mom, and brother. My parents have always supported me, and I know I can rely on them. Since I was a child, though, they tried to make me as responsible as possible. When I was young, I didn't like it, I didn't want to set the table, I wanted my mom to do my homework with me. But now I have to thank them for that choice; I think that it helped me grow a lot. I get along with my brother; even though sometimes we argue, but I believe that is normal among siblings. We have never had pets, except for two hamsters, and that is one of the things I regret, I have always wanted to have a dog. I generally think of myself as a sociable person: I enjoy people's company, and I like to talk with them. Friends would describe me as cheerful and determined. I would also say that I am a tidy person. My favorite sport is soccer, which I love so much. I like being part of a team, helping each other is very important. I really like sports in general; staying active means feeling good to me. My typical day is: I get up very early just to take a bus to school. At school, I have five lessons every day, and my favorite subject is Philosophy. I find it interesting, and I think it's also useful in everyday life. When I get back home, I usually make lunch by myself. I'm getting better at cooking, and my specialties are pasta and meat. If you’d like to try some Italian dishes while I’m in the U.S., I’d be happy to cook for you. Then, after lunch, I immediately do my homework. At about 5pm, I go to soccer practice. Sometimes, when it's cold and dark, I really don't want to go, but I love soccer too much. I also really like spending time in the locker room with my teammates; I'm always the last one to leave. Then I get back home, where I have dinner with my family. Dinner is the time when we’re all together at home, so we use it to talk about our day. Then we generally watch a movie or some fun show with my brother, or I play video games with my friends. I’m a bit of a nerd! I want to thank you once again for this opportunity! I can’t wait to know you and begin our journey together. With love, Carlo