Youth For Understanding USA

Inquisitive Ignas from Lithuania is ready for an unforgettable experience with his Host Family. Described as ambitious, thoughtful, and friendly; Ignas hopes to learn more about himself while forming new friendships in the US. Teachers say his motivation and positive attitude are always appreciated in the classroom. At home, it's just Ignas and his parents, spending time traveling and enjoying culinary adventures together. He hopes to explore new athletic endeavors. In his downtime, Ignas likes to read, take walks, and meditate to relax. When feeling creative he enjoys music and cooking. Will you welcome Ignas into your home for a year of growth, friendship, and laughter?

Irmak is a vibrant 15-year-old from Turkey with a passion for exploration and creativity! Irmak dreams of a future researching modernization methods for older architectural structures, combining a love of physics and geography. Describing herself as funny, adaptable, and fun-loving, Irmak enjoys a range of activities, from playing piano and volleyball to volunteering with an environmental NGO and indulging in hobbies like painting and photography. Teachers commend her social, outgoing nature, hardworking attitude, and strong critical thinking abilities. With a love for cooking, music, and outdoor adventures, Irmak cherishes time with her family playing games and attending events. Irmak is eager to share her Turkish culture, including traditional dishes like manti, and can't wait to learn about your traditions too!

Meet determined Bilguun or "Billy" from Mongolia. With aspirations of studying neuroscience, Billy's favorite subject is chemistry because it "helps us learn to be creative and organized". Peers and teachers can't help but appreciate Billy's enthusiasm and motivation. As a student government member and community volunteer, Billy strives to have both discipline and purpose. He credits his partial facial paralysis, something he's dealt with since birth, as an inspiration for his drive and perspective: "I see it as a unique aspect of myself that makes me more special. I've learned over the years that I don't need to be intimidated." Billy describes his family life as simple and uncomplicated, with a warm and respectful attitude. He enjoys volleyball, reading, and music in his free time, and hopes to try many more hobbies and activities while in the US. Billy shares with his future host family: "The exchange program will be undoubtedly the most significant part of my life so far and I am grateful to embrace every single moment of it. Thank you for welcoming me!"

Purevdorj from Mongolia says you can call him "Puujee." Engaged, responsible, and generous, Puujee is much admired in his school, so much so that he was nominated as the best student role model for the past academic year--as much for his role in school activities as in academics. Puujee is friendly, communicative, and sporty. Soccer has been a passion of his but he also wants to try American football, basketball, and maybe even hockey. Puujee is a big brother to two young siblings and describes his family as loving and forgiving. He's eager to share his stories about the nomadic life of animal husbandry in his country, including the exotic sports at their festivals. You'll enjoy Puujee as a forever family member!

Meet Gabriele, a 16-year-old student from Italy, who has been passionate about soccer since he was a young boy. Gabriele loves the teamwork and adrenaline rush that comes with playing soccer. He also enjoys playing video games with his friends, which helps him relax. He is always up for a new game recommendation. Gabriele's favorite subjects at school are English and Mathematics. He is interested in science and technology and knows that these skills are essential for his academic success. Gabriele has been well-received by his teachers, and is well-respected by all. His teacher describes him as having a sunny disposition, which helps to create a positive learning environment. Gabriele looks forward to making new friends and making lifelong memories with his American family throughout his exchange year.

Leyan, or Bereka as she prefers to be called, is a 16 year old girl from China ready to live her best life in the USA! Positive and adventurous are two words that Bereka uses to describe herself. Her friends describe her as cheerful and helpful with school and encourages her friends to be more adventurous. Bereka loves art as she feels you can express your true self while creating! Her favorite medium is drawing and sketches on her pad in her free time. Bereka and her dad love spending time in art museums admiring other's works. Bereka's other hobbies include badminton, boxing, and hanging out with friends. She likes to go to the movies, restaurants and even the Badminton gym with her friends. Bereka is excited to come to the USA learn a new lifestyle and culture. Will Bereka be your newest family member?!

Zhiyi or "Katt" from China is a girl full of ideas and passion. She loves arranging new ways to explore interests with her classmates and friends, from forming an online music club to starting a writing group. Although her interests are varied, she finds the common thread to be appreciating community and friendship. Katt enjoys making new friends and describes herself as outgoing and optimistic. Balancing out her creative ventures are her academic interests; Katt loves biology and is part of her school's technology club. She has volunteered to help graduate students with their science experiments and would love to continue this sort of volunteer work while aboard. Katt enjoys going to the pool with her mom and dad, saying her family has a very relaxed dynamic. In her spare time she likes to play computer games, especially logic-based ones. She also considers herself to be a dessert-making master, saying she enjoys the satisfaction of sweet success when her hard work pays off. Let Katt share all her curiosity and ambition with your family!

Meet Janieck from the Netherlands who describes himself as an very easygoing person, who likes everything, and is content with anything. Janieck says he is fascinated by anything related to technology, especially AI and Apple. In Janieks spare time, he enjoys playing Soccer with his local club. He appreciates that he is able to spend extra time with his dad who is the team coach. He is hoping that he will be able to experience soccer on an American high school team during his exchange year. Janieck loves music whether it is practicing his drums or listening to one of his favorite artists, music is a part of his daily life. Janieck cannot wait to meet his new family, and he loves pets; he even counts his two cats Goos and Snooze as family members! Janieck can't wait to meet you to begin his American adventure!