Dear Family,

          Hello, my name is Melanie.  I am 15 years old.  I have one brother in college and I am living with my mother and father.  I have high academic hopes.  I plan to attend college in the future and get a degree in business marketing.  Right now I am in the clubs DECA, Teen Institute, The History Etc. Club, and my church Youth Group.  I am planning to go to Boston, Massachusetts; New York City, New York; Charleston, West Virginia; and possibly Reynosa, Mexico by June of 2001.  As you can see, I like traveling.  I also enjoy reading, spending time with my family, and spending time with children.  My favorite color is light blue.  My favorite food is macaroni and cheese.  Other pastas are really enjoyable too.  I am excited about going to Italy, seeing the sights, experiencing the culture, and meeting the people.   I cannot wait until I get there!!!

P.S.  I am currently in German II, and I am able to speak basic German.

Yours truly,

Melanie