HELP! Student visiting the US under a VWP

[ccamif 0]

Hello there!

I'm 21 years old and I'm a student from Argentina. I've got Spanish citizenship and passport that allows me to apply for the Visa Waiver Program.
My intention is to go to New York as a tourist and stay as long as possible. I'd be going in Decemeber, during my summer break, so I wouldnt miss any class.
I've heard I'd be able to stay up to 90 days under the VWP... I've been saving money for over 2 years to do this trip so I'd love to stay those 90 days vacationing.
Not gonna lie... I also wanna meet someone with whom I've been talking online for over 3 years. We've discussed this several times and I'm more than welcome to stay in his house while I'm visiting but I think it would be risky I really don't want them to send me back home.

Any recommendations? What if they ask if I know someone who lives in the US? Should I tell them about him?
What would be considered as strong ties to home country if I'm a student?

Thank you for reading!

[Stressed Out 81]

To use the VWP you're going to have to apply for an ESTA online, which should be granted to you assuming this is either your first visit to the States or you haven't overstayed previously. When you get to your point of entry (customs) do as little talking as possible. Of course, put a smile on to look like a stereotypical, happy tourist and simply answer his/her questions directly without lots of elaboration. Always have your printed-out ESTA ready in your hand and give it (and your passport(s)) to the customs officer as soon as you meet them - this prevents them from having to ask you for it and puts them in a better mood as you're at least trying to make things easier for them.

I'd sum up your trip saying "I'm just visiting a friend for a few months." And it depends on what kind of student you are when it comes to proving strong ties to Argentina.

[Penguin_ie 5,986]

Staying with a friend is fine. You likely won;t be asked for ties, but bring evidence of enrollment in university, any party time job you go back to, rental agreement to where you live.

Main recommendation: book the return ticket for day 87, to allow a couple of extra days for travel delays.

[ccamif 0]

Thank you for your replies!
I am a good student (I get mostly 8 out of 10 on my exams) and I'm in my fourth year of College. Since I'm a full time student, with some crazy schedule.. I am currently working during weekends. But I'm planning on quitting this job before my trip. I guess all I've got are my good grades.
I've got another question: What if I decide to stay for 30 days in his house? Should he write a letter inviting me to his house? If so, what kind of letter?

[Stressed Out 81]

Invitation letters do more harm than good when it comes to simple tourism, nor or they necessary. On your customs form you fill out on the plane you'll have to enter the US address you'll be staying at during your visit.