Hello to all Au Pair Prospects, my name is
Victoria. At the time I joined the program I was 25 years old and had a yearning
for an adventure. I had grown up with children and was always spending time with
my family and friends children as much as I could, so when I saw the article
that Scotia Personnel posted in my local paper, I sent my resume right away! I
had spoken to another girl from my area that had participated in the program and
was very intrigued. Next thing I knew I was in Toronto for my interview and
within 3 months my host family had found me. We talked via email and phone for a
bit, but we just clicked and we knew we'd be a fit.
I left Windsor, Ontario, Canada
in August of 2010, boarded my flight from Detroit, Michigan and was on my way to
New York, I had never boarded a plane by myself, or been to New York, but I felt
comfortable because Scotia Personnel had taken care of my flight itinerary, my
J-1visa, ride to training and hotel stay. After my 3 days of training I boarded
a train to Washington DC and 4hrs later I met my family. If any of you girls do
get to experience the capitol of the United States be prepared for the humidity
in the summer! Lol! Winters were nothing compared to where I grew up, so no
worries!
I was very privileged to have
spent my year with the family I did. The baby girl I cared for is such a special
little girl, we had many fun times together, granted it wasn't always pretty
when she cried, but hey that was bound to happen from time to time. We went for
walks almost everyday, boogie babies was a blast, going to the park, reading,
shopping, playing, even meal times were fun with her. My host parents were very
cool, if there was anything I needed they were there to help. I never felt out
of place, I felt like I belonged to a whole new family. I have since returning
home, been back for a visit with the family and she had grown so much in such a
little time!
I personally am a very
independent person, which enabled me to feel comfortable enough to explore so
many places during my stay (With the help of my host mom showing me the ropes
for riding the metro of course and my handy map). On my off time I saw all of
China town;including a hockey game vs my own home team, NBA game, one of many
Smithsonian’s, the International Spy Museum was very interesting. I went to more
concerts in my year there then I had at home, one of which I took the metro, to
a street car and then a water taxi to get too! I went snowboarding for my first
time, saw a Barcelona vs Manchester United match, did a tour of the Capitol,
Pentagon and the best tour of all was the White House which I did with the
family. I ventured out as far as the metro would take me and beyond! I saw the
4th of July fireworks from a party boat which was breathtaking! I met
some pretty amazing people and if I could do it all over again, I would only
change that I didn't stay one more year.......
Victoria
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