Thank you so much for considering hosting me as part of your family. I’ve never been abroad for such a long time, like a year, so I’m not sure what to expect. But I’m really excited to experience new things and learn from this opportunity. Through this letter, I hope you can get to know me a little better before my arrival.

Firstly, let me introduce myself. My name is Keitaro, and I’m a 17-year-old high school student from Okinawa, Japan. Okinawa is a beautiful island known for its warm beaches, stunning emerald green sea, and rich culture. Growing up surrounded by nature, I’ve always felt inspired and at peace when near the ocean. I’m looking forward to sharing stories and pictures of Okinawa with you.

At school, I’m in the international course, where I study English and global topics. There are only six boys in my class, but we’re really close, and they’ve become my best friends. Even though I usually enjoy staying indoors, they’ve encouraged me to try new things, and I’ve come to appreciate spending more time outside with them.

As part of my school activities, I love practicing Naginata, a traditional Japanese martial art. It’s not just about physical strength—it has taught me discipline, patience, and the importance of respect. Practicing Naginata has been a big part of my life, and I’d be happy to share some techniques or tell you more about it if you’re interested. I also enjoy Japanese calligraphy (shodo), where I can focus on creating beautiful kanji characters with a brush. If you’d like, I’d love to practice calligraphy with you!

Music is another passion of mine. One of my favorite bands is Mrs. GREEN APPLE, and their song “Boku no Koto” has been a great source of motivation for me. Music has a unique way of connecting people, so I’d love to hear your favorite songs and maybe share some Japanese music with you, too.

Next, let me tell you about my family. My parents got divorced when I was two, so I’ve been raised by my mother, but I still have a great relationship with both sides of my family. My mom is my biggest supporter, always encouraging me with her warm smile. She works at a hotel and has been a role model for me in how to work hard and stay positive.

I also have a twin brother and an older sister. My brother and I are the same age, but we’re completely different in both personality and interests. Recently, he’s been passionate about playing guitar in a band, and seeing his dedication has inspired me to pursue my own goals. My sister, who is three years older than me, is always chill and fun to talk to. She’s someone I can always rely on for advice.

Lastly, let me share a bit about my dreams and goals. My ultimate goal is to help reduce child poverty in Okinawa, my hometown. Growing up in a single-mother household, I’ve seen the challenges of financial inequality firsthand. I’m passionate about studying economics and finance to better understand these issues and find solutions. I also believe education is a key part of solving poverty, so I hope to explore new perspectives and methods during my time abroad.

One of the main reasons I chose to study abroad is to immerse myself in a new culture and gain experiences I can’t have in Japan. Last year, I had the opportunity to participate in a short-term study program in Montana, USA. That trip opened my eyes to the value of cross-cultural exchange, and it inspired me to pursue this long-term program. I’m especially excited to learn about your family’s traditions, values, and culture. I deeply respect the unique customs that each family holds dear, and I want to adapt to and cherish your way of life. Whether it’s trying new foods, celebrating local holidays, or helping with family routines, I’m eager to be an active and respectful member of your household.

Thank you again for opening your home to me. I’m so excited to meet you, share stories, and create wonderful memories together. I hope to bring a positive attitude and an open heart into your family.

Looking forward to seeing you soon!

Sincerely,Keitaro

Interested in hosting—whether 6-8 weeks or the entire school year?