Hello my name is Courtney,
I would love to go to Italy because I am very curious about other cultures and the Italian Exchange Program would allow me to experience their culture first hand.
I originally lived two hours away from Romney, near Philippi, West Virginia. When it was discovered that my little brother, Ethan, was deaf my parents decided to move to Romney because of the West Virginia School for the Deaf and Blind. Being associated with the deaf community, I have gained an understanding and acceptance of other cultures and beliefs. 
My mom jokes with me, calling me a two for one package, because I speak English and American Sign Language (ASL). I am currently learning Spanish and it is one of my favorite classes. In this class I am learning about Spanish-speaking countries but I might never get the chance to visit one.
I would also like to visit Italy because one of my best friends lives in Modena, Italy. Her father is American and met her mother when stationed in Italy. They lived here for two years but moved back to Italy. When I used to visit them I learned a little about their culture but they always told me that life was very different in Italy. This is one of the main reasons why I want to go to Italy. 
As a student I believe that the Italian Exchange Program would allow me to learn by doing. By actually traveling to another country I would be learning about the Italian lifestyle by being there. Also when we travel to Southern Germany and Austria, I would get to visit many historical sights.
As an individual and as a citizen I believe that we should try to make an effort to learn about different cultures and I believe that this program would give me the opportunity to do just that.

I attend the Covenant Baptist Church, and I am also a member of The Covenant Baptist Church Youth Group (TCBY). My religion is something I believe in strongly and I am always willing to talk and listen to others. I am also a member of the Hampshire High School Dance Team (NRG), and I am very committed to my team. At times people in our group had minor disagreements and I encouraged those who were thinking on giving up to not quit but to at least finish what they had started. I have this mind-set with everything I do. I enjoy several different sports such as soccer, basketball, and hunting. I also like many different styles of music such as Contemporary Christian, Mild Punk Rock (Good Charlotte or Switchfoot), country, and rock. I also like to read books based on true stories or stories that contain suspense.
I have always had a very supportive family and I feel very lucky for that. When I mentioned to my mom that I would like to be in the Italian Exchange Program she did not even hesitate in trying to get me information off the internet. I am very close to my grandparents on my mother’s side. My grandfather has been a Methodist pastor since he was in his late teens, but in November 1988 my grandfather was involved in a hunting accident that almost took his life. This accident caused him to be immediately paralyzed from the waist down, and he lost most of his use of his right arm. My mother, pregnant with me, put up a little baby’s Santa suit as inspiration for my grandpa to keep on going while he was in the hospital, and rehabilitation. Luckily he is still with us today and he always reminds me of the story.
I would really love to take part in this program. I understand that not everyone will be chosen to go, and I understand that this is not a vacation but a wonderful learning experience in which we will get to learn hands on about the Italian culture. I am willing to do whatever is required for this program, and I have no problems with attending meetings.
Thank you for your time and consideration!