The Inside Scoop on All Things Au Pair in America
Want to learn more about the world’s most experienced, live-in cultural child care program? The best way to do so is by looking at Au Pair in America “behind the scenes.”
For this perspective, we interviewed one of our Au Pair in America experts, Placement Coordinator Patrycja Kolsut.
The following is Patrycja’s honest insight about Au Pair in America and cultural exchange.
Q. 1: Please tell us a bit about yourself and your role at Au Pair in America.
“I am a former au pair from Poland and now work as a Placement Coordinator for Au Pair in America,” Patrycja said. “I have worked here since October of 2017.”
As Placement Coordinator, Patrycja works closely with host families to match them with au pairs from over 50 countries. She also assists the Orientation team with travel arrangements, which she loves because she gets to meet au pairs as soon as they arrive.
Q. 2: Why do you think cultural exchange is so important?
“Being exposed to different cultures is increasingly more important in the globalized world we live in,” Patrycja explained.
From her own experience as an au pair, Patrycja knows firsthand how life-changing cultural exchange can be. It helped her form a better understanding of people around the world.
“I now can visit Finland, Norway, Germany, the Philippines, the U.K., Florida, and California among other places and have somewhere to stay. I can definitely say that my experience with people of different cultures changed my life for the better.”
Q. 3: What advice can you give to au pairs and host families to ensure a successful year?
“The advice that I would give to au pairs and host families is simple; be open to the experience and welcome the adventure of cultural exchange,” Patrycja said.
Also, she reminds host families that there will be an initial adjustment period as they acclimate to their au pair’s culture – which is normal. For that reason, it is important to be open-minded.
“If you are open and understanding of each other, this experience can – and will – change your life!”
Q. 4: What is your favorite Au Pair in America “Success Story”?
“One of my favorite stories is about an au pair from Europe whose host family became her real family very quickly,” Patrycja said.
After 2 years as an au pair, she returned to Europe to work at Au Pair in America’s London office. However, despite the time and distance, her heart eventually called her back to the U.S. – and back to her host family.
“She reapplied to the au pair program and returned to the U.S. as an au pair for the family for another 2 years,” Patrycja reflected. “If that is not a success story, then I do not know what is!”
To learn more about hosting an au pair from an expert like Patrycja, email Au Pair in America at aupair.info@aifs.com or schedule a phone consultation today.
