“When I was 18, I traveled to Boston, Massachusetts on a cultural exchange program and was an au pair for a family of five (with one more on the way). It was an exciting time, but before leaving for the U.S., the family experienced a tragedy when the father was murdered.
I reached out to offer my condolences, and I let the mother know that I was still willing to come and help her. I was soon on my way to America to join this family as an au pair.
For the next year, I loved and cared for the kids and became a part of a family that was really great to me, even in such a sad situation.
I had a lot of experience with kids that helped prepare me for taking care of the three children – but I still don’t know why I was the one who was able to help this family so much through this difficult time. I just know that I was.
This experience made me more mature and independent. Wherever I go in my life, I will always care for this family and know that they love me.
I am a fearless global citizen. I was brave to participate in cultural exchange. I was brave to help a family in need. Now, I have a family on the other side of the world.” – Christina, from Germany
