(photo courtesy of dreamstime)
So the United States remains one of the top (if not the top, I would guess) au pair destinations. I have been unable to find just how many people come to the US annually to work as au pairs, but it is most certainly a high count (if anyone has actual stats, please forward them this way!).
There is a lot to like about being an au pair in America, and for au pairs from abroad it is a chance to see the huge, fascinating, diverse country we call the US of A. Most non-Americans know the American way from school, American exports (Coca Cola and McDonald’s come to mind!), and, perhaps most notably, from the Hollywood portrayals.
Being an au pair in America – just like being an au pair in any country – is a great way to get to know the country from the inside out, in a much closer way than you would by a short vacation. Au pairs in America learn the reality of life in the US, including (but not limited to!) -
- Most Americans don’t eat fast food every day. Some don’t eat any at all, but are fonder of local, organic food offerings.
- Not all Americans are overweight and lazy. Despite what you see on websites like The People of Wal-Mart, not every American is hopelessly overweight. Many are fond of a healthy lifestyle, so au pairs don’t have to worry about gaining three pants’ sizes by moving to the US.
- Life in America is not like in the movies. In fact, I don’t know anyone who lives a life even remotely close to what we see in the movies. Although films like American Beauty and American Pie were immensely popular and shaped many minds as to what America must be like, it is not what normal life is.
- Americans can be generous and giving people. Another opinion that seems to be spread about in other countries is that Americans are greedy and selfish. The numbers actually prove otherwise, but people who spend time in America are often surprised that it is not the country of Scrooge’s that they expected.
- Not all Americans go to church. This is another misconception that has been propagated not only by the media, but by many politicians as well. The fact is that the U.S. is still traditionally a Christian nation and many people have a strong faith (not only in Christianity, but in other religions as well). However, not every family or individual attends church. And of those who do, they are not all crazy Bible-thumpers who need to be feared. Au pairs who work in America find that the stereotypes are not all true.
I’d be interested to hear from au pairs who work – or used to work – in America. What did you expect it to be like? What was different? What was exactly as you expected?
Hi there
I worked as an au pair in America 5 years ago. It was a most unforgettable experience.
Surprising, fulfilling, fun, exciting…
I will always regard America as my training ground. My life gained perspective, I began to define myself, was able so set goals and find my calling.
Now, I am the most happiest educator, back in my home, South Africa. I may still be studying and not driving fancy car, compared to my other friends. But I have something much more valuable – I have learnt to live my life to the fullest.
I dont recall every moment spent – but what will always remain is how I felt – I was on top of the world.
Aw I finished reading the blog!
Look forward to you updating again soon – You wrote this one a month ago, so I hope more updates are coming our way! One more time, thanks for doing this. I can’t wait to see with my own eyes and live completely the experience myself!!
Steff – I am going to start posting again – my family has had a long, hard winter and been sick more than I’d been expecting, so there just hasn’t been much time to post. But thanks for your friendly comments!!
Delaine – I am with you on the “training ground” idea – Germany was for me very much that. I learned a lot about life, myself (good and bad!), and people. Some of lessons were easier than others, but overall it was priceless experience. You are so right!
Thanks you for the intercultural information
America is one of the best destinations that au pairs can enjoy, the Americans are warm and multicultural, so many places to visit
We place au pairs in America as well, about us;
The American Institute for Foreign Study (Australia) Pty Ltd was established in 1999 to offer young Australians the chance to participate in our outbound programs, Camp America and Au Pair in America. In January 2005 AIFS opened its Sydney office and student centre which also serves as the base for AIFS’ regional headquarters.
Each year, around between 4,000-5,000 adventurous young people will participate on an AIFS program to or from Australia. AIFS currently offers young Australians the opportunity to participate on Camp America or Au Pair in America. Our inbound options include Work & Travel, Internship and Au Pair programs attracting more than 3,000 young travellers from over 20 countries.
AIFS Around the World
The American Institute for Foreign Study (AIFS) and our family of companies organises cultural exchange programs throughout the world for more than 50,000 students and young people each year. Since our founding in 1964, more than a million people have participated on an AIFS study or working-travel program.
Our Mission
To provide the highest quality educational and cultural exchange programs
To enrich the lives of people throughout the world
Our Values
Excellence in programs, operations and people
Exceptional caring support for our program participants
Honest, equitable and non-discriminatory treatment of program participants, partners, and employees
Innovation
Teamwork and collaboration both within the organization and with partners
Encouragement of employee initiative and professional development
Responsible financial stewardship
Support of multi-cultural values
Why choose AIFS?
The opportunity and need for enhanced global understanding is greater now than ever. AIFS programs teach young people from all over the world to understand each other’s qualities, their similarities and differences. Participants will learn vital language skills, become more culturally aware, will meet new people, and explore new places with the opportunity to add an international dimension to their CV. In fact, our strength lies in providing AIFS program participants with the educational edge they need to succeed in a highly competitive, diverse and interdependent world.
Our Network
In addition to our Australian operations, globally AIFS has principal offices in Bonn, Boston, Cape Town, London, Paris, Stamford, Warsaw and Washington DC.
Our Staff
AIFS staff understands the challenges, rewards and benefits associated with overseas study, work and travel with most staff having lived or studied in another country. This invaluable experience coupled with their local knowledge provides our customers with a comprehensive level of service every step of the way!
Our Programs
Work & Travel Australia
Professional Internship Australia
AIFS Au Pair in Australia
…..
AIFS Au Pair in Australia is a 6-month program placing European Au Pairs with Australian families to care for your children. It is offers the benefits of cultural exchange to your family whilst providing an Au Pair with extensive experience caring for children.
AIFS Au Pair in Australia offers a rigorous screening and matching process prior to the Au Pair’s arrival in Australia to ensure the most suitable placement for your family. AIFS is the only agency in Australia that offers Au Pairs who have been interviewed in person by our staff.
For families considering AIFS Au Pair in Australia, you may rest easy knowing you are applying with an international leader in cultural exchange and with over 20 years experience placing Au Pairs around the globe. Our screening process and ongoing support are second to none.
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