As an au pair, you’re at a prime age to be thinking about your future career. You may have plans after the au pair program to return home and begin (or continue) university studies. You may already be a university graduate while on the au pair program and look forward to advancing your career upon your return. Or you may be dreaming of what the future looks like after a life-changing year abroad in the U.S. One thing’s for sure: your time as an au pair in the U.S. presents many opportunities to grow professionally.
Au Pair Education
One of the greatest gifts the au pair program gives is the ability to study and live in a foreign country. On the U.S. au pair program, you’ll complete six educational credits for which your host family will fund up to $500. Most times, this will cover the full expense of your classes. You may want to consider courses that align with your career goals. For example, if you plan to return home and become a teacher, you can choose a course focused on child development.
Au Pair English Language Skills
Many au pairs have a goal of improving their English language skills while on program because being bilingual will open many career doors for them once they return to their home countries. As an au pair in the U.S. using English daily, it is inevitable your English will improve, but how can you level up your newfound English fluency? Consider getting a professional language certification, like TOEFL. Language proficiency certifications are ways to showcase your fluency in a non-native language and add a credential to your CV.
Au Pair Networking
Networking for professional purposes doesn’t need to feel like work. Each month when your Local Coordinator organizes a monthly cluster event, be sure to attend! You have the ability to meet young professionals from all over the world, and—best of all—they live in your community! Other ways to network during your au pair year may include professional meetups or community-driven events. Whatever it is, get out there and meet new people! You never know what can happen from a simple introduction.
Volunteer Opportunities
Au Pair USA regularly organizes volunteer opportunities for au pairs to be part of throughout the year. For example, in past years au pairs have volunteered at both the New York City and Los Angeles Marathons. You can also search for volunteer opportunities in your neighborhood on your own with a simple Google search. Volunteering is a wonderful way to give back to your community and differentiate yourself from the competition on your CV.
Cultural Exchange Components
Believe it or not, every day you’re living in the U.S. is an opportunity to learn and grow from a cross cultural perspective. A simple interaction with the cashier at the supermarket or ordering a meal at a restaurant are all ways you are building your communication skills and expanding your ability to exercise cultural sensitivity and empathy to others. These soft skills can aid in your future career, especially one in a global environment.
Professional Skills Through Childcare
Think childcare skills won’t help you in your career path as a lawyer, administrative professional, or business owner? Think again. As an au pair responsible for a number of different duties, you are practicing crucial professional skills daily. Chances are you’ve become more organized and better at time management in this role. Perhaps you’ve mastered project management. You’re likely a top critical thinker and problem solver. And negotiation skills? You’ve got those every time you’re able to avoid a massive tantrum with your toddler. Be sure to document these important skills and talk about them during future interviews.
Being an au pair doesn’t mean your career goals need to be placed on hold. Use your time in the U.S. to network in person and online. Build a professional social media presence. Research next steps in your career. And don’t forget to document all your accomplishments along the way so you don’t forget!
If you’re interested in adding ‘au pair’ to your CV, apply today! Au Pair USA has been successfully matching au pairs with American host families for over 35 years. We look forward to welcoming you to the au pair program!
