Vera is of Russian ethnicity, although she was born and grew up in Kazakhstan. Her host family will have the unique opportunity of learning about both cultures! Vera has a charming sense of humor and strong confident personality. She greatly admires her mother – “I took her optimism and leadership qualities, such as confidence, independence, and watchfulness.” She comes from a close-knit family and enjoys their annual summer visits to her grandmother’s home in the countryside. She looks forward to telling stories during their daily picnic lunches in the garden.

Vera loves the thrill of speeding down the street on her roller-skates or bicycle to chase after her little sister. She finds excitement in planning school events because she has the chance to exercise her creativity and make new friends. Vera is a natural actress and always signs up to be a part of her school play. She hopes to continue this hobby in her U.S. high school too! A few of her other hobbies include experimenting in the kitchen by trying out different recipes and also teaching herself how to play the guitar. “My other passion is learning languages, which will be connected to my future career. I want to become a scientist-linguist. Who knows, maybe it’s my way of doing [some good in the world]!”

In Vera’s perspective, traveling is the best way to learn about another culture. She looks forward to seeing the world from an American point of view and introducing her culture and customs to others. “I hope to become a member of your family for the next year and a friend of yours for the whole future!”