Chenny Hong 10726

Hi! It's a pleasure to meet you. I'm Lennis, and I'm currently in my second year of high school, which makes you my senior by about two years.

Here in America, there usually aren't any dormitories in schools, so everyone still lives with their parents at home. A typical day at my school consists of 9 periods, or classes. The school day for us begins at 7:15 AM, though this isn't the same for everyone, as seniors (what we call people in their final year of high school) are able to leave or arrive early depending on how many courses they've completed and the number of credits they've accumulated. Credits are important as they determine our eligibility for graduation and admission into colleges. They're also acquired over the course of the 4 years we attend high school. At my school, there are A and B days, so our schedules fluctuate depending on what day it is. Our classes include the teachings of four main subjects, which the American school system deems as the most important. These include a literature comprehension class, a math course, a class on history, and a science course. A foreign language class is also mandatory (I take French). We also have electives, which take up the rest of our schedule. These are classes we pick based on our interests. For example, people interested in engineering can take classes related to it, such as woodworking. In my school, we have the basic amenities such as study rooms, libraries, and outdoor spots where students are allowed to socialize and hang out. Oh, we also have the cafeteria where people eat lunch, though most are not too fond of the food that is served. Our day ends at 1:55 PM. This is when all classes are officially out of session. In my opinion, the most eventful part of the school day is after it ends, when we are able to attend our clubs and sports practices with our friends. There are a variety of after-school activities to choose from. Currently, I attend the art and literacy clubs every week, and I plan to join the volleyball team this upcoming spring. Our school looks especially pretty in autumn when the surrounding trees turn all different shades of red, orange, and yellow as they make way for winter. I wonder if autumn occurs in Korea during this time of year as well. Studying here is usually done outside of school, so we Americans enjoy studying at scenic cafes, libraries, or in the comfort of our rooms (Starbucks is where me and my friends prefer studying). Studying here isn't mandatory, but it's a necessity if one wants to excel in classes and on tests.

My favorite part of the school day is when I attend my English class. It's the one I find myself most immersed in. I also really enjoy physical education, or gym class, where we get to play different sports and activities. Since our school is on Long Island and in very close proximity to New York City sometimes me and my friends take the train and go there. Every time it's so much fun, even if we get a little lost, there's so much to see and do and buy. We especially like going to Manhattan, where Central Park and all the landmarks, such as Times Square, are. My favorite thing to do on these trips is to look at the old buildings. I find them very interesting. Though we don't always have time for these trips to the city, so on those free days we instead enjoy going to the many beaches and parks on Long Island. They're perfect for relaxing. I hope you get to visit and see for yourself one day!

I don't listen to much K-pop, but it has become a very popular genre here in America recently. Although I do really like the music of a rock band called "OurR." They're from Korea. I wonder if maybe you've listened to them? I also enjoy listening to pop music, but I have not heard of Peder Elias, so I will definitely try and listen to his music. I would love to learn more about school life and the culture of South Korea since I've yet to go, so I hope to write to you again soon!

Best Wishes, Lennis