First Contact Tips:

• There is a chance your prospective pen pal has run out of stamps. It's worth it to spend a dollar and send a couple stamps along with your initial letter. This works two fold as it not only increases the chances of you hearing back from them, but it also is a very kind and thoughtful action.

Writing Tips:

• Be honest and be yourself. You want to portray yourself as you really are.
• You should always write back, even if it's a short note to let them know you are busy and it will take a while to write a full letter.
• Be patient for responses. Mail may take a while. It also has to be processed.
• Be careful with sarcasm and humor. It's hard to tell when somebody is joking around or serious with text and writing.