Would you like to go abroad for a longer period of time? Going on an exchange is not your only option! A few years ago I took the spring semester off to work as an au pair in London and it turned out to be the most exciting seven months of my life. Here are some reasons why you should consider becoming an au pair too.
It’s an inexpensive way to spend time abroad
Living abroad can be expensive. As an au pair, you’ll basically get to do it for free. Sure, you’ll need to work around 25-40 hours/week, but in exchange you’ll get a free room, food and some pocket money.
You’ll learn the language
Living in a foreign country is bound to improve your language skills, even if you’re already pretty fluent.
You’ll make new friends
Especially many big cities have a large au pair community. As you’re all in the same boat, it’s easy to bond over shared experiences, and you’re likely to make lifelong friends.
You’ll become more independent
Moving abroad alone can be scary but it’s also an amazing learning experience.
You’ll learn a new culture
Living with a local family is a great way to learn about the local customs. As you’ll become part of their family, you’ll have a chance to experience the local life in a whole new way compared to visiting the country as a tourist.
You’ll learn valuable work-life skills
Language, cultural knowledge, flexibility, independence, solving problems, communication skills… As an au pair, you’ll learn lots of work-life skills every employer will appreciate, even if you’re not planning on a career in childcare.
You’ll have a chance to advance your studies
Au pairing is usually not a full-time job and you’re likely to have a few hours off during the day to attend language courses or even take courses at the local university.
You can go whenever
Becoming an au pair is not tied to your studies, unlike going on an exchange. And if you don’t want to take a whole semester, or year, off, you can go just for the summer. You’re also never too old to do it – many families appreciate life experience and will hire even people who have already retired.
You’ll create networks around the world
While making new friends, you’ll also network. By the time you return home, you’re likely to have a large network of like-minded people around the world!
You’ll get new experiences
Working as an au pair is a great and unique experience that you’ll reminisce for the rest of your life. Yes, it can be hard at times, but it’s also an adventure of a lifetime!
Photo credit: A Walk in the Park via photopin (license) / Unsplash