My Au Pair Adventure: The Big Departure and First Impressions
Six months ago, on July 15, 2024, I got on a plane to the United States with a mix of emotions: excitement, stress, impatience, fear… A real emotional rollercoaster! Today, I finally take the time to write about my experience and share my honest feelings.
The Departure Day: Between Joy and Panic
I still remember the day before I left. My suitcase was (too) full, my mom felt both proud and sad, and me… well, I kept switching between “This is so cool! I’m going to live an amazing experience!” and “What am I doing?!”
I had to wake up at 3 AM and leave home at 5 AM to go to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport for my 9 AM flight. Since I live in Normandy, we had to plan the trip early. My mom was frustrated because the lock on my suitcase wouldn’t work, my grandmother defended me, and my sister was laughing at the situation… It was already a little adventure before even leaving!
I couldn’t believe it was happening. Luckily, I was in contact with two other girls leaving on the same day, on the same flight. One of them lived in Brittany, so we were awake at the same time, sharing the experience. That helped reduce the stress.
The Goodbyes
Saying goodbye was tough. Walking to the gate, I felt heavy. I wasn’t going to see my family for one year. I was excited for my adventure, but also sad to leave the people I love.
Once on the plane, everything became real. The takeoff, the long hours in the air, and then… the landing in the United States. I had officially jumped into the unknown. And yes, being emotional, I cried a little because I still couldn’t believe it. I WAS IN THE U.S. In New York!
My First Impressions of the U.S.
But it wasn’t time to meet my host family yet! First, I had to attend the Training Days in New York. We were assigned roommates who would live in the same city as us. I’ll talk more about this experience in another article, but it was a great opportunity to meet other au pairs and start making connections.
Meeting My Host Family
After a few days, it was finally time to meet my host family. They welcomed me with big smiles and even a sign with my name on it (so cute!). Everything was new: the house, the routines, the food… My host mom is Brazilian, so my first meal with them was amazing!
The first few days were a bit chaotic in my mind. The jet lag, speaking English all day (my brain was like “please, stop”), and learning my au pair duties—it was a lot! But little by little, I started to adjust.
Things That Surprised Me (And Shocked Me a Little)
Everything is HUGE: The roads, the cars, the Starbucks drinks… even the shopping carts!
People are so friendly: Lots of “How are you?” and big smiles. But sometimes, I wonder if they really expect an answer. 😅
The power outlets: I arrived with my French charger… completely useless. Rookie mistake!
A Not-So-Perfect Start… And That’s OK!
Honestly, it wasn’t all perfect. Some nights, I felt homesick, lying in my room after a long day. Being far from family, in a foreign country, with broken English… there were moments of doubt. But that’s normal. It’s part of the process.
I was lucky to have a kind and respectful host family. They include me in their lives and family activities, which helped me a lot.
Being an au pair isn’t always easy, and my host kid isn’t always easy either 😅. However, I know we’re building a strong bond. I’ll go into more detail about my daily life as an au pair in another article.
Slowly, I’m learning to let go and enjoy. I’ve already met other au pairs, and I was lucky to have a neighbor, Valentina, who is also an au pair. She’s Colombian, and we became close very quickly. We support each other through hard times and celebrate the good moments together. We started exploring a little, and I can already feel that this experience is changing me.
And Now?
I don’t know where this adventure will take me, but one thing is sure: I want to live it fully. And if my experience can help future au pairs, I’m happy to share it here—with no filter.
👉 If you have any questions or if you’re an au pair (or a future one), feel free to comment or share your experience! 😊
