Youth For Understanding USA

We're pleased to introduce Carlotta, an optimistic and creative 15 year old girl from Germany. Carlotta considers geography and biology her favorite subjects, but is also fond of languages, especially English. She plays tennis and the piano, and loves to cook and bake. Carlotta loves to meet new people, and is considered a good listener by her friends. Her friends also see her as supportive and helpful. Her teacher says that she is well-behaved and respectful, is always prepared, and has very good English language proficiency. Will Carlotta become the newest member of your family?

Open-minded and friendly sixteen-year-old Emma from Germany would love to continue to play tennis while on her exchange year. Emma often plays tennis with her family and with her friends. Emma helps her family with chores regularly. Emma also enjoys Zumba and singing in a choir. In school, Emma enjoys classes such as English and History. At home, Emma enjoys spending time with her family and friends. Emma enjoys reading and listening to music such as Pop Music. She likes pets and hopes to adopt a dog some day in the future. Emma describes herself as reliable and empathetic. Emma also enjoys traveling and movies. Emma is grateful to her future host family and is motivated to have a great year with her host family.

Meet Tanakorn (nickname T-Off), a creative and easy going 15 year old boy from Thailand. T-Off is fascinated by computers, and hopes they will be part of his future career. His friends say that he is funny and helpful. His teacher says that he treats teacher and peers with respect, has a sense of humor, and has good English language proficiency. T-Off is very excited to meet you, and is ready to make some special memories!

Say hello to Noppanut or "Nop", a friendly, easygoing, and cheerful student from Thailand who is excited to experience life in the United States! Nop is passionate about sports, enjoying activities like golf, volleyball, basketball, and soccer. He loves staying active and spending time outdoors, whether its playing a game or just soaking in nature. A true animal lover, Nop hopes to find a host family with pets, as he enjoys being around animals. His friends describe him as kind, funny, and always ready to share a laugh. He values his friendships deeply and appreciates the open, supportive conversations he shares with those close to him. Studying abroad has always been Nops dream, and hes particularly excited to explore Americathe country hes always wanted to visit. One of his main goals during his exchange year is to improve his English, and hes also eager to try American food and discover new cultural experiences. Above all, Nop looks forward to becoming a part of an American family, creating unforgettable memories, and forming lasting friendships. If you're looking for a cheerful, sports-loving, and kind-hearted student to host, Nop would be a wonderful addition to your home. Hes excited to meet his new American family and is truly grateful for the opportunity to make this dream come true!

Ida Coujad; Germany, 16 Music lovers, take note! Ida, from Germany, fills her creative flair with music being central to her life. A talented and driven performer, Ida plays trombone in the local orchestra and also plays in a Big Band group. Determined and self-driven, Ida has taught herself to play piano, which she says allows me to express my creativity by experimenting with music. Friendly and curious, Ida is passionate about helping othersboth humans and animals. At school, she serves as a paramedic and tutors younger students. During her free time she often babysits and loves to play cards and board gameswith children and also with her friends and family. Ida lives at home with her mother where she learned at an early age to assist with vegetarian cooking and tidying the house. Two older brothers live independently and her younger sister lives a distance away. On weekends, Ida often visits her grandparents, playing cards and sharing in holiday traditions. Hobbies include bakingespecially cakes to share with friends; reading, shopping, and watching people. She hopes to strike a chord and live harmoniously with her host family!

Meet Ida! A vibrant and creative 16-year-old from Germany whos bursting with enthusiasm and ideas. With a passion for creativity, Ida excels in a variety of activities and is known for her kind and open-minded nature. Her teacher describes her as curious, always eager to learn and explore new things, and her excellent command of the English language sets her apart. Shes a role model among her peers, demonstrating both leadership and kindness, and her friends describe her as friendly, helpful, and a great listener. When Idas not studying, shes likely working at a summer camp, where she brings her energy and creativity to help others. She enjoys relaxing with a crochet hook in hand, crafting beautiful designs that help her unwind. Ida is also a fan of books and fanfictions, letting her imagination run wild as she reads and writes, whether its crafting poems or stories. Movies and shows offer her a chance to de-stress and dive into different worlds, while crafting and DIY projects keep her hands busy and her mind engaged. Ida is always looking for new activities to trywhether its acting, cheerleading, or experimenting with new hobbies like sewing or painting. Her adventurous spirit and openness to trying new things make her a perfect fit for any family, and shes eager to embrace new experiences during her exchange. Her love for animals, outdoor activities, volunteering, photography, and spending time with friends shows just how well-rounded and curious she is. Whether its meeting new people, exploring new places, or just relaxing with a good book or movie, Ida is always up for something exciting. Her creativity, warmth, and eagerness to learn and grow will make her an amazing addition to your family!

Meet Tamina, an adventurous and compassionate exchange student from Germany whos ready to bring warmth and excitement to your home. A confident and kind-hearted young woman, Tamina practices ju-jitsu and is a home baker with a passion for crafting delicious cookies! An exceptional student, Tamina shines in math, chemistry, and languages, and her love for learning extends beyond the classroom. Shes already explored Morocco, Tunisia, and England, and shes eager to embrace new experiences in the U.S., like wakeboarding or baseball. Her friends describe her as supportive and kind, while her teachers praise her excellent English skills, flexibility, sense of humor, and ability to connect effortlessly with peers and adults alike. Taminas vibrant personality and curiosity will make her an unforgettable addition to your family. Hosting her will be a delightful journey full of learning, laughter, and, of course, cookies!

Are you a foodie? Interested in Marvel movies? Do you enjoy engaging in conversations about diverse topics? If you answered Yes to any of these questions, Takafumi, from Japan, is sure to connect with you! Curious and well-rounded, Takafumi is an excellent student; impressing his teachers as a leader who is tenacious and hard working He plays tennis and table tennis, skis, and loves to watch baseball with his dad. Adaptable and outgoing, he says living in China for 4 years during elementary school taught him the importance of forming my own opinions based on my own experiences. It also sparked his dream of being an exchange student to the US. One of his favorite pastimes is visiting new restaurants and trying new foods. When the weather is not good for outdoor activities, you might find him watching movies. Hes seen all of the Avengers movies! During his exchange, Takafumi wants to become more independent and to learn to handle problems when they arise by himself. He looks forward to bonding with his host family and sharing a bridge between cultures.

Chi-chan, a lively and ambitious 16-year-old from Japan, dreams of becoming an architect who designs awe-inspiring buildings across the globe. She envisions combining the beauty of traditional Japanese design with unique architectural influences from around the world, creating structures that tell stories and inspire people. A passionate swimmer, Chi-chan thrives in her schools swimming club, where she enjoys the thrill of the water. Shes equally enthusiastic about skiing, often hitting the slopes with her family for unforgettable adventures. Her love for sports doesnt stop thereChi-chan eagerly follows soccer, volleyball, and baseball, immersing herself in the excitement of the games. Beyond sports, she finds joy in the rhythm of Japanese pop music, the serenity of nature walks, and the magic of movies. Chi-chan also loves crafting, cooking, and traveling, each activity fueling her creativity and curiosity. One of her biggest dreams is to explore breathtaking national parks, walking through their vast landscapes and soaking in their natural beauty. With her boundless energy and big dreams, Chi-chan is ready to take on the world!

Soshi, a 15 year old from Japan, is well rounded young man with a diverse range of interested. He enjoys many outdoor activities, including soccer, snow sports, swimming and tennis. He also loves music, movies and travel. Soshi's friend describes him as kind and easy to talk to, and his leadership skills lead him to be captain of the school swim team. While on exchange, Soshi would like to try lacrosse as it is not a popular sport in Japan. After spending some of his childhood in Panama for his father's work, Soshi became extremely interested in learning about learning to communicate across cultures. After school Soshi plans to attend college and pursue a degree in international studies. He hopes to do something that will help connect other cultures with his Japanese culture. He is an excellent student and would be a great addition to any family. Will you welcome Soshi into your home?

Respectful and sporty Toke loves to be with his friends and family but can't wait to start his exchange year in the United States. With his new found love of American Football, he hopes to be able to be involved with the sport at some level, whether that's watching or playing. He is also looking forward to experiencing the life of an American high school student and immersing himself in the English language and is proud of his language skills. Toke's friends describe him as loyal, kind and respectful. He is always willing to stand up for a friend in need. He enjoys being outside hiking, mountain biking and enjoying the landscape and scenery. Toke also enjoys listening to hip hop and German music. He is a well rounded individual and would make a great addition to any family. Will you open your home to Toke and allow his dream of coming to America to come to reality?

Meet Luna: Your Fun, Musical, and Adventurous Exchange Student from Japan! Hey there! I'm Luna, and I can't wait to meet my future host family in the USA! I'm super excited to learn all about American culture, especially through music, sports, and new experiences. From the moment I heard about the opportunity to be an exchange student, I knew this was going to be an adventure I wouldn't want to miss. Music is my life! I've been playing the trombone for many years, and I absolutely LOVE it! Whether it's playing in a school band or just jamming with friends, music always brings me joy. I also play the piano and enjoy singing karaokeit's one of my favorite ways to unwind with my friends. There's something magical about making music, and I can't wait to see what it's like to join an American marching band or band class. Maybe we can even collaborate on a performance sometime! Getting into sports! While music is my first love, I'm also super curious about sports! Recently, I've developed an interest in volleyball and baseball. Watching games with friends or family is always a good time, and I'd love to learn more about these American sportsmaybe even go to a few live games! Adventure is out there! In my free time, nothing beats going camping with my family. Whether it's hiking, fishing, or just chilling around a campfire, I love spending time outdoors and making memories. I think there's a lot to learn about the natural beauty of the USA, and I'd love to explore some of its amazing parks and landscapes! A Leader with a Heart Back at home, Im proud to have served as the president of my schools student government association. It was an honor to represent my peers, and it taught me a lot about responsibility, leadership, and working together as a team. Im excited to bring these skills to my host family and school, and Im always open to new challenges and I can't wait to see what my new life in the USA holds, and Im excited to share my culture, my music, and my enthusiasm with everyone I meet. Let's create some unforgettable memories together!

Meet Hannes, an energetic and open-minded exchange student from Germany! As the middle child in his family, Hannes has mastered the art of adapting to all sorts of situations. He has a passion for sports, with a love for dancing, tennis, piano, and basketball. Hannes is excited to try new sports during his time in the USA, particularly baseball, and is eager to join a basketball team to experience American team sports firsthand. Family is incredibly important to Hannes, and he values the close bond he shares with his parents and siblings. He describes himself as a free spirit with a kind heart, always eager to connect with new people. When he's not spending time with friends or diving into his favorite video games, Hannes enjoys some quiet time reading a good book. Hannes also has a creative side: he loves cooking, listening to music, and spending time outdoors. Whether he's experimenting with new recipes or exploring nature, hes always ready for an adventure. In school, Hannes is particularly passionate about history and mathhe finds numbers fascinating and enjoys delving into the stories of the past. During his exchange year, Hannes hopes to form lifelong friendships, learn from different cultures, and become a cherished part of an American family. If you're looking for a friendly, curious, and well-rounded student to host, Hannes would be a fantastic addition to your home!

Are you ready for an Italian adventure? Camilla hails from Rome, and will turn 16 before flying to the US. She loves animals, especially turtles and puppies, welcomes host siblings, and cannot wait to meet her new family! Camilla has been involved in dance since she was a young girl, and although she no longer dances on team because of her studies, she still enjoys just dancing in her bedroom. Her dance instructor told her many years ago that she should dance away stress and sorrow and just to feel strong and healthy, and Camilla has taken that advice to heart. Camilla loves to listen to music with her friends, as well as go shopping, or tour other cities. She was very excited to go on a trip to Sicily with her best friend. She loves shopping with her mom, who gives great advice, and watching soccer matches with her dad and sister. Recently Camilla and her dad have taken up scuba diving, which has brought them even closer as they learned a new skill together. One new skill that she is really hoping to learn in the US is cheerleading or poms-- she hopes that her background in dance will help. Camilla also has an older sister, with whom she shares everything. Her sister has told Camilla all about being an exchange student in Texas, and gave Camilla great advice. "Stay motivated and prepare to face some difficulties, but don't lose sight of the goal--make new and exciting experiences and friends and be happy!" Camilla is ready to meet you, and cannot wait to make many happy memories!

Let Melissa from Germany fill your home and community with her contagious laughter and good cheer! Well integrated into a group of friends, this girl is a true leader chosen as class representative by her peers. She valiantly represents her fellow students and joins available activities, just as she intends to do with whatever is available in your local school. Melissa has many academic interests which could lead her someday to become a pilot (to see the world) or a surgeon or a criminal investigator. She has many hobbies like going to the gym with her dad, cooking with her mom, drawing, painting, movies, books, watching and playing sports. She can live with pets except for no dogs in her bedroom. She's willing to try all different kinds of foods--and help in food preparation. Open, friendly and spontaneous, she will quickly adapt and make friends by jumping into new activities with you. Melissa is already imagining attending her first high school football game with you!

Hi, I'm Luca from Germany! I would describe myself as a cheerful and adventurous person who loves exploring new experiences and stepping outside my comfort zone. Meeting new people is one of my favorite things to do; I enjoy talking to others, even if weve just met, and I like to think of myself as friendly and responsible. Spending time with my family and friends is very important to me, whether were outside enjoying nature or cozying up indoors for fun activities. Call me creative! I enjoy painting, drawing, sewing, or crafting. Ive been taking piano lessons since second grade, and Ive played tennis weekly for nine years. I love outdoor adventures like playing sports in the park, going ice skating in the winter, or sledding when theres snow. When indoors, I enjoy playing board games, watching movies, or spending time with friends pets. I also like baking, photography, and discovering new music. I am very interested in biology because I appreciate its connection to nature and the opportunities it provides for hands-on learning. I also love traveling, exploring new cultures, and trying different foods. Reading books, magazines, and blogs is a pastime I truly enjoy, as well as volunteering and spending time with animals. Im so excited to become part of a new community, share my experiences, and learn more about the world through this exchange program! I'd love to participate in high school sports in the U.S., both on a team and cheering from the bleachers so I'm a true part of American high school spirit!

Meet Josepha, an open-minded, adventurous, and culturally curious student from Germany who is excited to begin her exchange journey! Josepha has a passion for languagesshe studies Latin, Spanish, and English with genuine enthusiasm for the rich cultures and histories they represent. Her dream is to one day travel the world, exploring diverse cultures and languages firsthand, and she hopes this exchange year will deepen her global perspective, create lifelong friendships, and inspire her curiosity even further. Known by her friends as friendly, reliable, and socially responsible, Josepha brings a positive presence wherever she goes. She loves meeting new people, engaging in meaningful conversations, and is always open to new experiences. While shes eager to try any activity her exchange region offers, Josepha is especially thrilled to experience typical American pastimes that she cant find back home. Josephas interests include baking, cooking, spending time outdoors, and volunteering. Her love for animals and exploring new places makes her an ideal fit for a family that enjoys staying active and connecting with the community. Josepha often spends time with friends exploring her city or baking together when they stay indoors. With her family, she enjoys outdoor activities, like cycling or visiting historical sites, and together they often visit museums, which reflects her appreciation for culture and history. A friendly, adventurous, and adaptable young woman, Josepha will be a wonderful addition to a host family, bringing warmth, a love for learning, and a sincere interest in embracing new traditions. Shes ready to fully immerse herself in this exchange experience and make unforgettable memories with her host family.

Meet Anneke Your Future Exchange Student from Germany! Anneke is a friendly, open-minded, and curious student from Germany who loves learning new things. Shes known for her honesty, respectfulness, and positivity, and she quickly makes friends in new places. Anneke enjoys supporting her local community by helping at events in her village and plans to get involved in social projects while on exchange. Anneke has a wide range of interests that keep her active and balanced. Shes especially fond of cooking, baking, crafting, and being outdoors. Walking is one of her favorite ways to relax, and she regularly goes on walks with her neighbor. When she's alone, she enjoys listening to music and exploring nature. During her exchange, Anneke is excited to continue cooking and looks forward to trying new recipes in the U.S. She also hopes to stay active and explore new sports. Along with her love for cooking, she enjoys spending time with animals, doing photography, shopping, and traveling. Meeting friends for fun activities, like exploring cities for shopping and dining. Family is a big part of Anneke's life, and she describes her home environment as relaxed and happy. Everyone pitches in to keep things organized, and they often enjoy cooking and baking together. Family outings to exhibitions, nature spots, and cycling trips are cherished memories for her. With her love for connecting with others, exploring new activities, and enjoying shared moments with family and friends, Anneke will bring warmth, curiosity, and a sense of adventure to her exchange experience!

Nahel is a lively and social 16-year-old from France, with a warm and friendly personality shaped by a love for meeting new people and discovering new places. In school hes most drawn to history, geography, and languages; fascinated by learning about diverse cultures and their stories. With five years of basketball under his belt, he looks forward to continuing to improve his game while on exchange where his determination keeps him working hard on and off the court. Having already spent a year in Switzerland with an American host family, Nahel is eager to dive even deeper into U.S. culture. His mothers hotel business has given him ample experience meeting people from all over the world, and hes become adept at welcoming and helping othersskills that make him a natural fit for the exchange experience. Nahels hobbies reflect his active, outgoing nature: he enjoys golf, American football, and spending time outdoors with friends. When not with his friends or family, hes often on the basketball court or exploring new ways to challenge himself. Family means a lot to Nahel, and his parents have instilled a strong sense of responsibility and teamwork, with everyone pitching in on household chores and decisions. Through his exchange year, Nahel hopes to gain an even broader perspective, sharpen his English, and get a true sense of life in the U.S., further fueling his dreams for the future.

Hi! Here is Lise, a student from the Netherlands with a deep passion for history and a zest for life. Family and friends mean the world to her, and she believes in the power of caring and social connections. Lise is known for her humor and loves making jokes. She is quite enterprising and doesnt give up easily. Whether its in her studies, sports, or games, she always strives to do her best and often finds herself motivated by a bit of healthy competition. In her spare time, Lise enjoy baking and being creative. She loves painting, drawing, and writing poems and stories about anything that sparks her imagination. Traveling and exploring new places with her family and friends is another passion of hers. At home, you might find her singing and dancing when no ones watching. She cant wait to embark on this adventure and to see how it will shape her into a more well-rounded person. She can't wait to embrace every opportunity and challenges that comes her way!