Dear Future Host Family,

As I sit down to write this letter, I’m filled with excitement about the journey ahead and the adventures we’ll share together. From cooking and exploring new things to cozy movie nights, I just can’t wait to meet you. Growing up watching American movies containing scenes of various sports such as football, basketball or cheerleading, but also special events and traditions like prom or Halloween, I became fascinated by the vibrant culture. But I know that reality is often different from what we see on screen, and I am eager to discover the true essence of life in the U.S. So allow me to introduce myself and share a bit about my life, my family, and my passions.

Hi, my name is Ella and I’m 15 years old. I live in Czech Republic, a beautiful country in the middle of Europe.

I’d say I’m a friendly and easygoing person who loves connecting with others and having fun. Whether it’s cracking jokes or diving into deep conversations, I’m here for it. However, I also value my personal space and privacy, which is important for my well-being. I’m dedicated and tend to be a perfectionist. I enjoy learning and trying new things, especially food and fun activities. I also care a lot about the people in my life and always try to bring a positive vibe—no pressure, just good company.

I come from a family of five: my parents, sister, me and our dog Toffi. We’re really close and often spend time together, whether it’s watching movies, going on trips, or just chatting about our day. My sister, who is three years younger than me, is not only my sibling but also one of my closest friends. We have separate bedrooms, which allows us to enjoy our privacy while still being close. I’m close not only with my sister, but also with my parents. They support me in everything, even my wildest ideas! I can share anything with them without feeling ashamed because they always listen and give solid advice, even when my plans are a bit out there. We frequently gather in the evenings to play board games (our favorite is codenames). One of our favorite family activities is traveling—we love exploring new places because it’s a fantastic way to learn about different cultures, history, and, of course, the local food and art. My favorite countries so far have been Italy or Turkey. In winter, we hit the slopes in beautiful Italy, where I can’t resist the thrill of snowboarding and skiing.

When it comes to my interests, I have a wide range of hobbies that keep me engaged. I’m passionate about sports. In addition to snowboarding and skiing, I love tennis, pilates, dancing and playing table tennis I used to compete in aerobics but stopped two years ago to try new activities and have more free time. Staying fit is important to me, not just for physical health but also for mental clarity.

I currently play tennis twice a week, which I absolutely love. I spend a lot of time hitting the courts with my mom or friends just for fun. It’s the perfect way to relax and enjoy each other’s company! Dancing brings me great joy, even though I’ve never danced in a professional category; I do it just for myself. I also have a great time playing table tennis with my dad at home. Our matches often turn into a hilarious ping-pong ballet rather than a competition! The tension is real as we try to outsmart each other, leading to plenty of laughs and the occasional “Did you just hit it with your elbow?” It’s a fun way to bond, and sometimes I wonder if the ping-pong ball has a better chance of winning than either of us!

Reading is another passion of mine. I love getting lost in a good story, and some of my favorite books include the “Throne of Glass” series and the “Once Upon a Broken Heart” trilogy. These stories take me on thrilling adventures and inspire my imagination. My goal in the USA is to explore as many cozy bookstores as I can. At every new stop, I plan to pick up a book that catches my eye, adding to my collection of stories and memories!

Food is my other passion! I love trying new cuisines—Czech and Italian are my faves, but I’ve recently fallen for Thai food. Those vibrant flavors! Cooking nights are a messy tradition for me and my friends.

I truly value my time with friends. Whether we’re enjoying off-key karaoke, discovering new restaurants, or diving into long conversations over coffee, these moments of connection and laughter are essential. After all, sharing experiences and creating slightly embarrassing stories is what keeps life interesting! Friendships really add that extra sparkle that makes everything more enjoyable!

Through this experience, I hope to expand my horizons, learn about your culture, and create unforgettable memories together. I’m excited to share my own traditions while also embracing yours. I look forward to connecting with you and contributing to your family in meaningful ways.

Thank you for considering me as part of your home!