Being an au pair in the USA is a life-changing experience, but it's natural to feel a little overwhelmed when arriving to a new country. Luckily, you’ll have the chance to make new friends from around the world who are going through the same experience and have similar goals. Building friendships with other au pairs can help you not only adjust to your new home, but relate to other young people who are navigating their new lives in the USA.
Below, you’ll find 10 fool-proof ways to make new friends as an au pair in the USA. Follow these tips and you’ll have an amazing group of friends in no time!
1. Talk to other au pairs before you leave
Before you leave for the USA, you’ll have opportunities to talk to other au pairs who are traveling at the same time as you. During meetings and trainings, try to find people who will be moving close to you and make plans for when you arrive in the USA!
2. Meet new people in college classes
College courses provide a great opportunity to get to know other students who are learning English or interested in the same topics as you. You can also attend campus events and clubs and meet both international and American students!
3. Join a local club
Whether it’s a local sports club or a board game club, your new neighborhood may have groups that can connect you with other young people in your area. Try visiting a local library or community center or ask your host parents if they know of anything nearby.
4. Hang out with your local au pair group
As a Cultural Care au pair, your local representative is there to help you connect with your local au pair group. Take advantage of important opportunities to meet and bond with other au pairs in your area!
5. Visit your host kids’ favorite places
Visiting places like playgrounds and children’s museums can help you meet other people who also care for children while you’re out with your host kids. Plus, the kids might make some new friends, too!
6. Take a group exercise class
Sweat is a universal language, and taking a group exercise class is the best way to connect with other people who live an active lifestyle in your area. Try joining a local gym or finding free exercise classes on Facebook—then invite a new friend along for a weekly jog!
7. Join social media groups
Most au pairs are on some form of social media, whether it be TikTok, Instagram, or Facebook. If you meet someone in person, try to connect on social media after and continue the relationship. Or, you can find local events and join groups on almost any platform.
8. Take part in free community events
From carnivals and farmers markets to cultural festivals and public concerts—your new community may have a lot of free events to offer. Ask your host parents about local happenings, then invite another au pair for an awesome friend-date!
9. Become an ambassador
The Cultural Care ambassador program is a great way to connect with other au pairs who are passionate about cultural exchange and supporting each other. As an ambassador, you’ll join a global community of mentors, influencers, and leaders, and have the opportunity to get to know other au pairs with the same values. You can apply here!
10. Be open & outgoing!
The best way to make friends is to always be open to new connections. Don’t be afraid to say hello, compliment someone’s style, or start up a conversation with someone in your neighborhood—who knows, you may just meet a friend for life!