Kiwi au pair Tiffany lived in Massachusetts for a year and she shared her experience here with Au Pair in America New Zealand to encourage others to take part in this unique cultural exchange.
I always thought of America as they portray it in movies. But it is so much more than that. Being an au pair has allowed me to experience what I now think of as ‘the real America,’ Being immersed in an American family gives you insight into what America is really like – traditional American experiences such driving on the right side of the road, watching an American Football game, seeing Fourth of July fireworks, dressing up for Halloween, eating hotdogs and fried dough. You are given the opportunity to learn about America’s school system, government, as well as little things like how to tip at a restaurant.
I am lucky enough to be an au pair for three wonderful children aged 14, 11 and 7. The oldest has just begun high school and the younger two are in elementary school. My host family is very involved in the community and all the children play a lot of sports throughout the year. My week consists of getting the children ready for school each morning, doing laundry and keeping the children’s play areas and rooms tidy, picking them up from school, helping with homework and getting them ready and off to sports in the afternoons.
From the day I landed in America, I was already receiving emails and messages from other au pairs in the same area that I was going. Au Pair in America has a great cluster system that allows you to meet other au pairs who live in the same area. Through this, I have made a fantastic group of friends who I enjoy hanging out with during my time off.
For those of you considering coming to America to be an au pair, it is something that I recommend you do. It is such a fantastic way to see America and a great way to meet people from all over the world. It is such a rewarding job to have – being able to be part of a family and seeing the children grow over your time here.
Learn more about cultural exchange opportunities with Au Pair in America.
