I have been trying to write this post for a while now.
After a couple of months of trying to
figure out my next step, I have decided to pursue the two options that appeal
to me the most.
Option 1: Au Pair in America
I’ve always wanted to be able to take some time out to
travel and experience life from a different view. This is probably why the idea
of Au Pairing appeals to me. I heard about it when one of my childhood friends
took a couple years off after matric to go overseas. I think I was in 2nd
year at the time, and didn’t think I’d be getting a gap like this any time
soon. But still I secretly dreamed of being able to work and travel one day.
What I find so enticing about this whole thing is the
picture that it paints – exploring the world and meeting new people, while
still living with a family, getting a decent allowance and looking after some
cute kids. And, then also getting the chance to study a short course and
explore some interests.
One of my school friends, Dove, took a year off after
graduating and went to Au Pair in New York. I speak to her every now and again,
and she seems to be doing ok. She says that her host parents are pretty chilled
and that she has quite a bit of time off. When put like this, it all sounds
great!
But the thing that scares me the most about this is that I
have never traveled outside South Africa. And this will require me going miles
and miles away from my home all by myself. I think this is one of the biggest
risks that I have ever considered. My whole life has been sort of sheltered. Even
though I lived in Cape Town, away from home, for 5 years, it didn’t really feel
as though I was out there in the world. I lived on an enclosed campus with
security patrolling 24/7 and people around me that I could easily trust.
Traveling to the USA will not guarantee me such. It will
be a completely different world filled with the unknown and, to be honest, is extremely
daunting for me.
So in the fairness of exploring all options, and after
some encouragement from my mentor, I have done some research and had a meeting
with an agent in the area. She was really nice and told me about all the
requirements and fees involved. Although I am still hesitant, I can still work
on these things.
Requirements that I need to work on -
- 200h child care experience
- Drivers's licence
- Passport
***
If you have any advice, please feel free to share :)
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