"There will never be enough
words to describe my time and experience here in the United
States! I have to constantly remind myself that this is not a
dream, but that I'm actually part of an American family and
living in America. Don't get me wrong, it is hard to live so far
away from my family and give up the life I've always known.
However, through the ongoing support from my family and the
loving care from my host family, it has made it so much easier
for me to participate in this extraordinary program. I love it
so much that I have extended for another year.
Coming to the States has been more than a dream come true. I
have learned more this past year than ever before about the
American culture, sports, and, of course, American politics. But
what I value most about my experience is the relationships I
have with Dylan (the boy I take care of), my host family
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and my friends. My Dad always told me how awesome the American
people are and he was right.
Dylan was diagnosed with a developmental delay in speech in November
last year and more hard work and dedication was needed to help him.
Through that, Dylan has taught me that if I never give up on him, he
will never give up on me! I constantly work with Dylan to improve his
speech and can see him improving every day. I am so proud of him! Taking
care of Dylan and seeing him grow up has taught me so much patience and
understanding. I love the Scott family like my own. From day one, they
treated me like I was part of the family and will always be thankful for
this great opportunity they have given me.
 One
of my goals in coming to the States was to experience as much as
possible. I met some people who run a place called Jesus Field. It’s a
youth center where the gospel of Jesus is given to at-risk youth. I
volunteer by mentoring and interacting with the kids. At first, I was
finding it very hard to relate with them and had no idea where to begin
building relationships. Then, I realized the only thing I can give them
is my love and support and show them that I care about them. That was
definitely the key and today I love spending every minute with them.
I’m also involved with a non-denominational Christian church called
Elevation, where I attend house church, Bible studies and Sunday
gatherings. I am a volunteer in the nursery and love playing with the
kids. Lots of people tell me that I am a kid magnet. The people I have
met there are unbelievable. They are the greatest friends I have ever
had. They are constantly showing me the American way of life. I try to
show them some South African things too like taking them to a
professional rugby game in Salt Lake City. I got them hooked on rugby!
Over the past year, I attended classes at the University of Utah which
was a lot of fun. I got to know some of the members on the University of
Utah rugby team. What an awesome experience!
This has truly been the greatest and most enjoyable experience of my
life. I wouldn’t trade this American Dream for anything in the world.
This program has taught me so much about myself and I definitely see
life from a different perspective. I would recommend is program to any
young person, because it has a lot to offer and has positively changed
my life.
I am honored to be a finalist for the International Au Pair of the Year.
I would like to thank God for giving me this awesome opportunity and for
giving me my daily strength. I would also like to thank everyone that
made this possible for me. They know who they are and I will never
forget you!"
Written by: Daniel, South Africa
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