Au Pair- Cuenca, España

Thinking of doing a gap year but are worried it’s “irresponsible?” I’m here to say it is the most responsible/wisest decision you will make.
In high school and college, I was always the “over-achiever.” I had my course schedule jam-packed every semester, took honors classes, and wore many hats with extracurriculars. Before applying to law school, I knew I needed a break. I only knew school, so I wanted to see the world and travel before getting into more studies and then a career. While I did have some hesitancies prior, I am so thankful I chose to be an au pair. The love of a family and community I experienced is something I cannot put into words. I was nervous last October because I had no idea what the town/family would be like. Yet, like always, God had wonderful surprises in store. I was blessed with the most loving and fun family I have ever seen. My parents acted like newly weds, even though they had been married for fourteen years, and took me in as a daughter. I even have Spanish grandparents 😊.
Not only that, but my little town of Casasimarro was extremely supportive. Despite cultural and language differences, I gained intentional friendships I hope can withstand the thousands of miles in distance. I joined a “stay-at-home mom” walking group, who always had my back. One even introduced me to their daughter, who is now my best friend. We celebrated Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Gal-entine’s Day together. They shared their language and advice with me, and in exchange I shared my traditions. I also was part of an English class (don’t worry, the teacher spoke Spanish with me so I was learning, too). Together, we baked treats, shared countless laughs, and even entered musical competitions. Even though Casasimarro was small, I encountered a world full of blessings. “Casasimarro devino; pan, chorizo y…” donde vivo ❤️.
As well as fostering connections, I also experienced self-growth. I grew in both my confidence and faith in this journey. I learned that I am weird, and I am totally okay with that. Rather than complaining about being stuck in a situation or not able to travel, I am determined to do things. When you get creative and refuse to let barriers stop you, you can travel anywhere you want, and for pretty cheap! I visited over 20 cities in Spain, plus small towns the locals shared. I also traveled to Morocco, Portugal, Ireland, Northern Ireland, and Scotland. Because of the connections I made, I made friends and fellow travel gurus. I also traveled with my violin- playing in the streets and with locals. Sure lugging the violin was a hassle, but it opened so many doors. From playing in a friend’s holiday band, to meeting Scottish fiddlers, I was overjoyed I could live out this musical dream. My town was small, but I still took advantage of every opportunity to learn and meet someone new. Everyone has a story, so talk to them! Locals love sharing their food and homes with a foreigner who wants to learn about their life. Because of this year, I have no fear in asking for help. When you travel, you have to rely on strangers. You have to shed the self-pride and feel okay with really being helpless navigating somewhere new.
My advice for anyone considering a gap year: do it, just be smart. In my free time I did continue studying for the LSAT, so I would not be behind with graduate school. As long as you plan your time, you can have a fun and wise time off.
Don’t be afraid to talk to strangers and be open minded about stories you hear. If someone who has never traveled tries to get you to not board the plane/stay in a hostel, listen to people who have adventured and loved it. So, for my review I give Destino Idiomas a 100,000,000/10. Ana was extremely helpful and encouraging. I was never charged any fees to be an au pair; I only had to buy a plane ticket. Whenever I had questions, I knew she was there to help. She even put me in contact with the former au pair, who is now a sister to me. If you’re still questioning, just please go au pair; go abroad to gain a new family and perspective of yourself and the world.