Meet Our Students

For more information about me, check out my Host Family Letter!

Meet Le Yuan from Taiwan.  His name “Lee” means “joyful” in his mother tongue of Mandarin- a name he says fits him well.  He describes himself as a positive, curious person who loves to smile.  He drew inspiration to embark on this adventure after living in the UK for a year with his family, he encountered and overcame cultural differences, learning a lot in the process. That experience taught him to step out of his comfort zone, now that he is a teen he is ready to experience these things on his own, as an exchange student in the US living with a host family.  He described himself as calm and easy-going.  He is also responsible and caring in that he describes routinely helping out around the house, cooking, cleaning and taking out the trash.  He also states that he is extremely grateful for this opportunity and very appreciative. His goals for himself for this exchange year include, making friends, joining clubs, and improving his English. He loves sports- he has been playing soccer since he was six, plays table tennis and enjoys long distance running.  He plays board games too including the game of “Go” an ancient Chinese strategy game. He is excited to meet his new American family!

Introducing Emma from France, who is bursting with excitement for her upcoming year in America—an opportunity she has eagerly waited for many years. Emma lives in France with her parents, younger brother, and their beloved cat, Nala. She describes herself as a “cheerful and open-minded person who delights in both the small everyday joys and the thrill of new adventures”. She sees herself as “funny, kind, honest, and sensitive.” Emma loves to travel. She is a huge fan of Star Wars, and a memorable moment was when her parents reenacted the iconic scene between Anakin and Padmé in Italy, creating unforgettable memories. In addition to her adventurous spirit, Emma enjoys baking treats like cookies, cakes, and desserts. She has a creative side, engaging in various handcraft activities, and she is passionate about music and playing the piano. In terms of sports, she enjoys snow skiing and basketball. She is eagerly anticipating her time in American schools, looking forward to joining clubs, sports teams, and other activities.

Alberto is a student from a small town in northwest Italy who attends a scientific high school with a sports focus. His program combines academics with sports-related studies, including economics and law of sports, and five hours of physical activity each week. He enjoys his classes, has a good relationship with his classmates, and likes spending time with friends after school. Alberto hopes to study in the United States because he is curious about new cultures, experiences, and sports. He sees this opportunity as a way to grow personally, improve his English, and become more independent. Having already completed a one-month exchange in France, he feels prepared to live away from home and embrace new challenges. Family is very important to Alberto. He lives with his parents, two brothers, and his dog, Frisky, an 8-year-old golden retriever. He loves animals and enjoys walking his dog, visiting his grandparents, traveling, hiking, and cooking with his family. Sports play a major role in Alberto’s life. He learned to ski at age three and enjoys skiing with his family and friends. He has played soccer and basketball and continues to go to the gym regularly. While in the U.S., he hopes to play basketball or soccer again or try new sports. Alberto is excited to learn about American culture, share his daily life with a host family, and build meaningful relationships during his exchange year.

Meet Marly from Germany! She is always ready and prepared for her next adventure in life. Marly loves to find humor in situations and honesty is important to her. She is athletic and currently rides horses. She has been riding since she was very young. She used to own a horse and knows how to take care of them. When she is not riding horses, she plays tennis or at the gym working out. Marly just like her mom, loves kids. She babysits in her free time, hangs out with friends, and she loves going to her local soccer games. Marly has a family of 3 besides herself. Her mom, dad and older sister love to travel to other countries and learn new cultures. Both her mother and sister were exchange students in the USA. She has heard such good stories and even has met the host families of both her mom and her sister. Let’s help Marly continue the family tradition and follow her dreams.

Emanuel (15) is a thoughtful and responsible student from Spain who brings calm curiosity and genuine warmth to every home he enters. He loves sharing stories at the table, helping with pets, and pitching in with daily routines. With a passion for nature, reading, sports, and music, he’s the kind of student who blends in easily while adding something meaningful—whether it’s a helping hand, a good conversation, or a new perspective. He writes, "I hope that, if we meet, we can create good memories together and that I can become not only a guest, but a real part of your family." Don’t miss the chance to welcome him into yours.

First, I would like to thank you for taking into consideration to let me be a part of your family! I live in a small town where we have many different things to do. My favorite subjects in school are German and religious education. I love to write and reflect on my life in an emotional way. In the USA, I would love to take a creative writing class, film production, or psychology! When I grow up I would love to become a therapist and support people's mental wellness. In my free time, I enjoy gymnastics and playing the piano. My favorite piece to play on the piano is "My Heart Will Go On" from the Titanic! I also love to bake, and my specialty is chocolate chip cookies! I would love to show you how to cook German specialties. While I don't eat meat, I don't mind being around people or family that do! I can't wait to experience popular high schools things like prom, and football games during my exchange year! I also cannot wait to experience my first Thanksgiving. I hope I could give you a little insight into my life and you got to know me a bit better, I am already looking forward to finally get to know you!

Soheyl (Adam) lives with his mother and brother in the southwestern part of France. Adam loves animals, especially dogs. He enjoys activities like karting, board games, video games and basketball. He is interested in learning American football and baseball. His future goal is to work in aviation, inspired by his childhood dream of being an airline pilot. He has already taken theoretical courses related to aviation. He also has a passion for architecture and design, using software like Photoshop and Illustrator for technical art projects. Adam describes himself as calm, reserved and respectful. He is excited to explore the diverse culture of the United States, particularly its holidays and traditions. Adam views this exchange as a chance for cultural sharing and personal growth, aiming to return to France with broader perspectives and lasting memories. “I am fully ready to commit myself to this exchange program in order to gain the most from it and return to France with a broader view of the world and unforgettable memories”

Meet Candela “Cande” from Spain! She describes herself as a as a caring, responsible, organized, funny and well-educated teenager. She comes from a close knit immediate and extended family. Her hobbies include padel (a sport similar to pickle ball) volleyball, skiing, dancing, reading, playing boardgames and watching movies. Cande recently started attending an international school where she is surrounded by classmates from all different cultures. She stated that she “fell in love with” the US when she visited with her family in order to pick her sister up from camp. She looks forward to learning about our culture, our educational system and participating in new activities through her school and host family. Cande writes, “I think I can bring a positive and caring attitude to your family….I would be very grateful to share my culture and traditions as well as learn from yours.”

More to follow...