April's A-Ha! Travel Moments ~ Tam Le

I'm a business major at The University of Texas preparing to graduate in May. When I started my last year at UT, I was ready to get my senior year over with and then rock it in the corporate world. I was starting my fifth internship in the fall, this time with Cultural Embrace (CE). I would get all the experiences I needed to round out my killer resume and then interview for lucrative professions all over the United States. I had the extracurriculars, the work experiences, the leadership roles, and even the study abroad component. I was good to go.

There was just one snag in my plan. As I was interning with Cultural Embrace, a large part of my duties included maintaining the CE blog. As I read about participants’ experiences in France and Australia, my heart would continually break. I would physically ache inside when I saw pictures of the participants painting with French children or when I thought about the freedom of taking a year off just to work and travel around Australia. The pain was unbearable and I missed Europe so much (I studied in Bath, England the last semester of my junior year). The thought of waiting years until another visit made me want to cry at times.

Then I had an “A-Ha!” moment. I always thought the people who took these long trips abroad had awesome jobs that allowed them to leave for months at a time and that these trips just worked with their vacation schedules. I thought once I have an awesome job that gave me months of vacations, I’d go back to Europe. It never occurred to me that I am approaching one of the best times in my life to participate in a Cultural Embrace program. I will be graduating and I don’t have any commitments to a long-term job or company or family. I could do something that I learned from the British; I could take a “gap year.” I could go abroad for an extended period of time and then come back and start a new stage of my life: fulltime work. This would make me look like a competitive and unique candidate for jobs and I'm confident that this experience would not hurt my chances of landing a great fulltime position. Being an au-pair or an English teacher in Europe would provide me with free food and housing; it's the most cost-efficient way of staying in Europe that I can think of. Suddenly I had no more excuses. I had to do it.

After that moment, my heart finally stopped breaking. I'm ready to graduate and will head off to France to live with a host family and teach them English on Cultural Embrace's France Language Exchange.  I can't wait!

Tam Le
Former C.E. intern; Future C.E. Language Exchange in France participant

Angelo's Testimonial in France - by Angelo Current Language Exchange Participant in France

The family that you guys hooked me up with is absolutely amazing!! They're all so very kind and hospitable and you couldn't have given me a better living situation. Occasionally, it's a bit difficult to express myself to them and vice-versa due to the language barrier, but that's pretty much expected. Most of the time it can be resolved through a dictionary.
The town is very pretty too. At first I was a bit nervous because I thought that I'd be living in a small farm town in the middle of nowhere. But Limoges is actually a decent sized city with lots to do and plenty to see. It's also very convenient that there is a bus really close by that I can take to go downtown, to sports rec. centers, etc. so I can keep myself busy while the kids are at school & the parents are working. Just fyi, yes I am keeping a journal and taking plenty of pictures, both of which I can shoot your way whenever you want.

Anyways, thank you so much for all of Cultural Embrace's help these past few months and for setting me up with such a great family!! Thank you also for the teaching ideas. Everything that you guys have done for me is very greatly appreciated and I wouldn't be in such a good position right now w/out you!

Hope all is well and stay in touch!!

Great- by Current Au Pair in France Stephanie Pratt

Sorry it's been so long, I have no excuses except that I'm just living. My computer was broken though for a little while, but I think even if it was fixed I would have been distracted. Distracted is the perfect word for how I feel. I can't concentrate on anything because I have so many thoughts swimming around my head right now.

Unfortunately I'm still dealing with awkwardness in the house but I think I'm the only one who feels it. There are just some things I don't understand I guess. I feel uncomfortable sometimes but I think I'm just having trouble letting myself be seen in anyway other than as an employee which is not the point of the placement. I'm getting better every day at opening up to this wonderful family and I think that they are starting to see my efforts to connect with them.

On another thought, I went on a vacation not too long ago at the end of October. I went to Berlin, Koln, to Brussels and back to Paris. It was AMAZING. In Berlin I got to see an amazing exhibit on Hitler at the National Museum there. In Koln I walked to the top of the Koln Dom. Why? I don't know but after a 97 m hike up the tiniest whirliest stair case my legs were shaking and I could barely walk. It was worth the hike though and it was an amazing view in a beautiful church. In Brussels I went to see a friend's band play, did I mention I was with my friend the whole time? No? Okay well I was with emmie; she's best friends with my best friends older sister. She lives in Berlin, and since I moved to Paris it made sense to meet up at least once. Anyway, so in Brussels I went to see a band on Halloween, dressed up as Rudolph the red nosed reindeer. I unfortunately have no pictures of me in my costume. But I did a photo project and tried to take a Polaroid of every gas station we stopped at. I got back to Paris November 1st, and now I've been working, floating around, going to school and day dreaming of my next excursion to London.

I warned you I feel distracted, I'm changing subjects now. Paris has been wonderful to me and I'm looking forward to this Friday evening. I found some good clubs and bars that play actual music and not ONLY techno. Thank goodness. Tonight me and my friend Lindsey are going to do the twist and maybe shout. By shout I mean invite these French boys we meet that are new to Paris as well. Oh la la Paris has so much to do. I wish I was just a little closer to Paris. I have nothing to do until tonight. I'm tight on money so I can't go entertain myself by shopping and it is almost not worth it to go into Paris, come home to eat and get ready and go back. That is easily and hour and a half of just travel time. Le Vesinet is beautiful but come on the only young spot is closed right now to be re-modeled. Just my luck. So my options are to browse through expensive old lady stores, browse through the monoprix, go to a park and freeze, eat (but I shouldn't because I'm bored or spend the money) or sit at home. I chose sit at home.

Well, look at these pictures now.

Stephanie Pratt
Au Pair
France

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FAQs About Internships Abroad- by Founder Emlyn Lee

Happy Fall! This is probably my favorite time of year... the cooler weather, the foliage changing, pumpkin patch picking, and football season. Heck, even for the non-football fans, like me, you can't beat running errands and not waiting in line during game weekends! But one of my most appreciative part of this season is that students are back at school, and I get to go back on the road, and meet, visit and speak at institutions about the benefits of going abroad. Although our programs are available for all types and ages of travelers, students and recent grads are a prime target market, as they have the time and invested interest to seek a global perspective that will enhance their academic, professional, and personal endeavors.

During these campus visits, I have noticed a lot more interest with internships, and wanted to share some of my insights and answers to commonly asked questions:

Q: What is the objective of an internship abroad, and how will it benefit me?
A: No doubt, we are living in an inter-connected world, and our dependence on each other for financial, political, and social purpose is ever present. Having the experience to intern abroad provides you with first-hand experience that no textbook, newspaper, GRE/GMAT/LSAT test, or CNN may teach you. It will improve your cultural competency, and build a strong foundation of international contacts. Combine this with personal development and growth, and there really isn't any negative benefit from this experience.

Q: Who should intern abroad?
A: Interning abroad is ideal for students, recent grads, or professionals seeking firsthand experience and exposure of a particular field or industry. Once you send your application to our Austin office, our region-specific coordinator will have an in-depth phone interview with you, to learn more about your goals, interests, background, and such. Then, our Austin Coordinator will connect with our local Coordinators to organize the best mutually beneficial placement--matching the employer's availability and needs, with the skills, background, interests, and goals of the interns.

Q: What type of positions will I be placed in?
A: Cultural Embrace pre-arranges and tailors internship placements in a wide variety of fields. Our Austin staff and in-country coordinators work closely together to fill the interests and goals of the intern with the needs and availabilities of international employers. Although it is ultimately the employers decision to select the candidates they want to receive, our connections and relationships with these companies prove to be positive and influential. Placements vary, however, popular requests are within the marketing, business, advertising, graphics, fashion, culinary, hospitality/tourism, sports management, education, social service, IT/computers, engineering, art, medical, and media fields. We have more success in making placements within small to medium sized companies, non profits, or NGOs, which allow our interns to be more involved within the workplace.

Q: What are my duties, and how will I know I'm not just making copies?
A: Duties and responsibilities vary depending on each placement and employer. We hope, prepare and expect our interns and employers to maximize the interns' time abroad, so this is a mutually beneficial experience for all parties involved. You are a foreign guest that will be abroad for a limited time. Employers need to invest their time and energy to train and manage you. Take the initiative to learn, produce, and be of assistance, but be realistic of your expectations. You are there to be learning and helping the employer. The more you put in to something, the more you get out of it. You may not solve the economic recession, or discover a vaccination for cancer, or design the hottest trend for Dolce & Gabbana,..but an internship is a wonderful stepping stone for you to get experience and exposure in your specific field.

Q: Is my internship paid?
A: Due to visa regulations, most international internships are unpaid, and will typically last 10-24 weeks. The reason for this is because the local government wants the professional and technical jobs to go to their local citizens and improve their economy and unemployment. Thus, most internships are short-term and unpaid. However, there are some employers that may offer a stipend or other compensation (ie: meals, transportation remuneration, excursions, etc) to their intern, but this is up to the discretion of the employers. I recommend you going in with the mindset that you are joining this program without any compensation, except the 'priceless' experience.

Q: What type of visa do I have to get?
A: The duration of your placement and your nationality will determine what type of visa you need to obtain. For some countries, if your unpaid internship lasts for less than 90 days, a regular tourist visa may be fine. Some countries may require a student, cultural, or work visa. I recommend that you check with your local embassy or consulate's website to see what your specific nationalities' visa requirements are to intern abroad before applying. Cultural Embrace unfortunately does not have any control or say of visa regulations and immigration decisions of who gets approved of a visa or not. It is the responsibility of the intern to obtain the proper visa, however, our Austin and local coordinators are available to assist you with any questions, and will provide any necessary documents explaining that you will be abroad for an (unpaid) internship.

Q: What are the advantages of getting an international internship versus one at home?
A: The global recession has impacted the job market. Quality paid jobs are hard to come by, and more young professionals are using internships to be a productive stepping stone to gain exposure and enhance their resumes/CVs. The obvious advantages of an international internship are to: exemplify your leadership, initiation, and adaptability of the international world. Develop firsthand experience in your particular field, gain a network of global contacts, improve foreign language skills (English in Australia, Ireland, and South Africa are foreign too), improve interpersonal and intercultural skills.

Q: What are the requirements to get a successful internship?
A: Having some past work and/or course related experience is beneficial. Keep in mind that the employers want this to be advantageous to them as well. They are keen on having the most competent intern's fresh perspective and ideas, yet want their invested time and energy to be worthwhile. In regards to foreign language component, this depends with each country and employer, so it may be placement specific, but the general advice is the more the better. It is preferred and recommended to have high intermediate/advanced level for most employers. For example, most Western European countries (ie: France, Spain, Italy, and Germany) require high intermediate/advanced level of their native language. Most of our internships include a four-week intensive language course prior to the internship start date. This course will improve your overall language skills- oral, written, reading, comprehension; however, you should have an intermediate foundation before you travel abroad. The rule of thumb is: if you don't feel comfortable interacting on an every day conversation with the locals, a professional internship may not be the best program for you. Do not despair, we have other opportunities so you may volunteer, take cultural classes, or engage in a language exchange program. Or, if you want to add more language lessons prior to or during your internship placement, we are able to include that too.

Q: How will I be sure that this will be the best experience and program for me?
A: While CE strives for excellence in regards to safety, health, and customer service, the 'perfect' adventure has its joys and pains. The purpose of traveling abroad is to do, see, hear and taste things that are outside our comfort zone. Life is a constant roller coaster, and putting yourself in a foreign culture, will have its ups and downs...but isn't that the most exhilarating part of the ride?

Hope this helps all of those who are curious!

Discover the Similarities... Share the Differences,
Emlyn
Founder of Cultural Embrace

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Bummer- by Current Au Pair in France Stephanie Pratt

It was a chilly night, a boring night, a night where nothing to exciting could possible happen. I thought, however I found myself walking down champs-elyeese with Lindsey that boring Tuesday night. We got ourselves a bottle of wine, found a nice bench just next to the arc de triumph and played some rummy. (That’s a card game if you didn't know, because I didn't know) It was a dull night saved once again by Lindsey’s push, which I’d have to say is one of her best personality traits. I love that she can turn anything, nothing, into something.

Anyway so there we we're just a couple of California girls sitting on a park bench, playing cards sharing wine. A bum walks up to us and asks us for a cigarette, well we can't speak French very well, okay so I can't speak French at all really. So me and Lindsey just kept saying no, no no. Or I guess non, non, non since it was French. Eventually tipsy Lindsey was done with the bums badgering and she nicely said "arret" which means "stop!” This really angered the drunken man and after what I am assuming are some French curse words, leaned forward and continued to spit on Lindsey.

Yes you read that right, a bum spit on Lindsey. Thankfully she had some ninja moves that night and managed to dodge it enough so that it didn't hit her face, but instead her sleeve. We looked at each other in awe and terror. He then quickly turned around, walked away and copped a feel of my derriere. Yes, once again you have not read wrong-- he touched my butt. This bum spit on Lindsey and touched my butt.

Oh Paris, what colorful people you have.

Besides this little stumble part of my night, it was amazing! I learned rummy and walked down Champs-Elyeese listening to the one French song about walking down Champs-Elyeese. Do you know what I’m talking about?

Anyway, I started school today. It seems like I’ll like it, the teacher is nice but strict and I really like the teaching method. You can ONLY speak French, nothing else. I'm excited to start practicing my French and learning it. Would you like to hear what I’ve learned? Bare with me here...

Bonjour, Je m'appelle Stephanie. Je suis Américaine, et je parle Anglais et un pue français. J’habite au Vésinet et je suis étudiante.

 

Voila!

A Benito!

Stephanie Pratt
Au Pair
France

ps here is mimi (my best friend)

Mimi- by Current Au Pair in France Stephanie Pratt

You are my only friend. You are the only one who will always come when I call, how will sit with me while i'm sad, who listens to my worries and never interrupts. The only one who doesn't judge me for my confusion. I feel like my brain needs a vacation from worries, and stressed feelings of acception. I think i'm to focused on others and not focused enough on myself.

Today so far has been lazy, until I remember that the family has gotten back from a weekend with out doing laundry. I started one load and will probably have at least 4 to do today, and thats not including mine. I did the dishes, picked up the house a little and watched some mulan. I hope i can go to Lindsey's house in a minute or two, she wants to teach me rummy. It's strange some of the things I miss, and some of the things i thought that I would miss and dont. I miss beign able to go anywhere at anytime with any of my good friends. I miss how easy it was to just do whatever. I know its because i'm just meeting new people making new friends. Its just hard.

So far with the people i've meet i've had a lot of fun. Me and Lindsey hang out often since we live close. We can go out and have lunch and talk and do whatever and its still fun. This past weekend we went to a bar in paris, and chatted with some french guys. It was cool to try and speak french haha. At first they told us ohhh ugh sorry, je ne parle pas l'Anglais. and we were like ugghh oh no. after a couple of minutes of horrible french conversation the guy was like HAH just kidding i can speak english. It was really funny. after a while they dissapeared and lindsey and i parted, i went home she went to a friends house to say in Paris. The next night i went to a bar and to a party with an old friend from highscool. It was soooo fun, i ended up busting the seam in my already broken shirt and spilled wine on it, but it was just evidence of a fun night.

Today i'm just sitting, and waiting for the next thing to happen. A lot of my time is spent waiting and i'm tired of waiting.

Thank you mimi for being such good company, your meows bring a smile to my face.

Stephanie Pratt
Au Pair
France

l'etoile- by Stephanie Pratt

I'm sitting in my dark room, gloomy from the gray clouds outside my window and listening to the humming of the vacuum the cleaning lady is using. Its only 2pm and I've already had a crazy day! I woke up around 9am, took a shower and got ready. I walked out the door put on my headphones that sang me the sweet music of Milk n Cookies. A great way to start a day of errands.

My first stop was at the local post office to send out my OFII forms to finish my visa. I haven't even ever been inside the post office in California I don’t think... Anyway, it was crowded and I didn’t really know what envelope I needed to send it, so I just picked one, turns out the wrong one of course. I asked a woman for help but her English was no better than my French. I showed here that I need something called a RAR and she talked about me having to go on the internet and explained the rest in French. I stood there; I’m sure looking really really confused. So I turned to the page in my packet that said what I needed to do, and just handed it to here. Turns out it wasn't what she was talking about. So she handed me a slip I needed to fill out. When I was done I turned it in, incorrectly filled I guess, so I had to do it again. A nice man explained to me that all this means is that a slip will come in the mail telling me I have to go back to the post office and get my letter. Why can't the letter just come to my house? I don't know but I wasn't going to question. I said merci and went on my way to find the school where I going to take my French classes.

I have to take A3 toward Boissy, get off and Challet Les Halles and take the 4 toward port de Orleans and get off at... I forgot the stop name, but I got off at the right place. Despite me having everything marked down to a T even little arrows on my map to show me where to turn when I went to walk to the school from my stop, I had a chaotic trip. The A3 was fine, kind of slow and I just hummed to my music. I got off and was completely confused as to where the 4 was. I had been at this stop before and I never remembered a 4. I guess it’s always been there and I was just blind to see it, because there it was in front of me. I got on the escalator to follow the arrows up, but somehow I managed to trip and fall on some girl, who I then pushed down to steps... I was humiliated!!!! People probably thought I was like some crazy drunk at 11 in the morning who couldn't even stand straight anymore. I just ran the second I got off the stairs, and managed to bump some more people. I went to put my ticket it and the ticket taker thingys to get to the line I needed and I stood there for a minute trying to figure out why it would even feed in my ticket. Turns out it was closes. Ups, as the French say instead of oops. I went to the next one and some scary guy followed me through my open doors using me as a free ride, JERK! Then I found the train and it was PACKED. I couldn't move and I stepped on some girls toes who gave me the look of death and I smashed into people because I had nothing to hold onto. I eventually arrived to what I thought was my stop and realized I had one more so I turned around and jumped back in only to smash some more people.

I finally arrived and went out the exit, the wrong exit and I was a block further than I had anticipated. I looked at my map and was like psssh easy, and kept walking to soon realize I was walking the wrong way. I turned around and wandered around and around until I finally found the school. I went to take my placement test, and some girl had her chair waaaaaay sticking out so I could pass her to my seat so I said "excuse me". Then remembering I was in France said "pardon". She replied to neither so I just jammed myself through a really tight squeeze then she gave me an evil look too. Well honey you’re the one who wouldn't scoot in! Anyway, after only answer one question in French (oui, j'aim chocolate) I was declared a debutant. A beginner which I already knew haha. I thought I got to pick my time of classes but I guess they assign it for me. I think I’m going to get the 9am class which sucks because it takes almost an hour to get there! But as long as I get a class I don't care.

So finally now that it was almost 1pm I was making my way back and it started to rain, I didn't even bring a jacket! Luckily the metro is super close so I got on and was on my way home. That ride was pretty boring, except when I got off at Le Veisinet, I accidently ran into the guy sitting across from me and continued to trip out the door. Oh well.

Oh I forgot to tell you about the scariest man ever! On train A3 on the way to school there was a strange and like weird person on the metro. He sat across from me, then he moved, then he moved again he moved all across the train. He looked like he was going to have a mental break down! His eyes darting all across the train, and he kept picking up his bag then setting it down and picking it up and setting it down. Since there’s nothing better to do on trains but make up stories, I decided he was a bomber and really scared myself until I finally realizes, he's probably just a crazy bum.

Sheeew, and now I'm home and it's time for lunch. Soon I have to get the girls from school. Well, Uhhbadee uh uh that's all folks!

Ratatouille - by Stephanie Pratt

Bonjour!

I met up with lindsey a couple of times and we have a blast together! I'm so glad i have a friend here. The first day we got completley lost and ended up somehow in a forest. Then we headed to Batille and bought some new shoes (lindseys feet were hurting) that were really expensive but completley worth it. Then we had a beer at a random pub and chatted. Later the waiter informed us it was happy hour and asked if we'd like a cocktail. Lindsey asked what the most periasan drink was because we wanted what everyone else drinks... MOJITOS! not very french i thought, but i guess very hip right now in Paris. I had a strawbery one and lindsey had a kiwi one. After that we got a bagette from a bakery and it was soooooooo good. Later we found our way to the effile tower where we shared some wine right underneath it! It was amazing and it was all glowing, it was so beautiful! We evuentually made our way home and somehow the metro was easier since we had the wine haha. I go home and have a nice sleep. The next morning is my first day with the kids and its tough but fun. They are pretty well behaved and play with each other. Sometimes i stuggle thinking of things to do, i feel like i should be spending every second with them but i know thats a little extreme. As long as i know where they are and they are okay, i'm okay. I mean we can barley speak. I helped Margaux make a house out of legos and showed Chloe my favorite show when I was young, Sailor moon duh!!

Soon Claire and David came home and I was on my way to meet lindsey again. This time we just got completly as lost as we could get and roamed in circles around the effile tower and the bridges on the Seine. It was really fun but very tiring and after walking so much we worked up and apetit and had a late dinner at a little cafe that you could see the effile tower from. It was really nice. I went home again, after for the past days its just been me and the kids. Except last night, to the advice of my friends bobby i went by myself to the downtown part of Le Vesinet to have a coffee.

Claire and David are everything I could hope to have as a host family, they are nice and respectful and also very helpful and accommodating. I got lucky to have such a great family to live with here. But despite all the fun I've had so far, and the fun i know thats coming I still have trouble with homesick, which is part of the experience. This is and email i sent my mom last night.

"I know they are very nice too. Im really insecure about what i do so when i do something wrong i feel really really bad and like they'll be mad or something but they never do. I guess they understand this is new for me. Like today when they got home from work i asked if they minded if i went to the downtown of le vesinet to get a coffee and claire said to make sure im home early so im not tired which is totally understandable and i think it was because on sunday i came home like at 1130esh and idk if that made them mad.. I cam home early tonight like at 930 i want even gone for an hour because i was scared. Its stupid things like this that make me feel bad and i know they arent mad. i feel like an intruder or something. UGH i wish i felt more comfortable and they do everything that should make me feel welcome. Claire got me two books about paris one about all these free places i can go and one that explains all the distrects of paris with detailed maps. It was really nice but i dont fell like i deserve it. I wish i was at home sometimes with you and dad and courtney. will you tell the boys i love them and miss them too!!! I know they dont really care but i miss every little thing about home. Our dirty floors, logan, the cats, our wrapping paper window. I miss you guys so much and i cant wait for you to visit. Idk what im going to do for christmas im pretty sure they are going to a family thing which of course they should and its totally resonable that i would go i wouldnt even want to go. but i'll just be here alone... maybe lindsey will be here and i will feel okay on christmas. I love you so much!!!"

These feelings i know are part of my experience, but i hope they pass soon. On a brighter note, here are some more pictures!!!!! :)

Le Vesinet-Centre - by Stephanie Pratt

Today I'm going to meet another au pair who lives in Le Vesinet. Her name is Linsdey and she's from California too! We're meeting in half an hour at the market in downtown. I think we are going to take the metro to Paris too! David took me on his bike today to show me how to use the tickets and where the metro is. The only other time i've been on a motorcycle was with my friend matt, who told me I had a death grip. I was terrified! but it was amazing to drive throught the city on a motorcycle!!! Now I'm off to meet lindsey.

A domain!
Stephanie Pratt
European Adviser Abroad

il pleut - By Stephanie Pratt

Bonjour!

I arrived in Les Vesinet this morning! It's beautiful here, the house looks like something out of an old book. The flight was long and hard, I didn't sleep much so I'm really really tired. Its 1030pm here and my bed is calling me and inticing me to go to sleep. Je suis fatigue, Marguax taught me that today. Let me start from the begining. I woke up at my house CA time 6am. I got ready, some of my good friends came over to see me off and soon i was on my way to the airport. The car ride there was filled with anxiety ridden chat. My friend amanda was luckily there to help calm me down. My dad drove and my mother sat in the front, and she radiated sadness and worry. She would glance back reach for my hand and give me a couple tight squeezes every now and again. All i could think was how much i was going to miss her. But despite the sadness of leaving the excitment of starting a new journey was bubbling inside me. I arrived at the airport, and a million hours later (really only like 16 hours) I was in Paris! I grabbed my luggage and as soon as i stepped out of the terminal there was my host family waiting.

I had thought of this moment time and time again. How am I suppose to great them? Are they going to think I'm a dumb american girl? But these horrible thoughts slide out of my head as soon as Chloe ran up and hugged me. After a traditional french introduction kisses and all, we we're off to the house. The kids seemed very excited and really wanted to speak with me as much as they could. Margaux showed off her counting with Chole counting all the way to 13 in english. Romain asked me simple question, and most importantly about Harry Potter. He loves Harry Potter, and so do I! We pulled up to their beautiful house and i was greeted by mimi! The cutest cat I've ever seen. She literailly looks french. Soon I was being shown around the house and soon I was in my room getting ready to shower.

It was the most confusing yet refreshign shower ever! After unpacking and sharing some of my things with the children it was time for lunch. It was delicious, tomatoes in olive oil for starting, chicken for the meal and apple sauce for dessert. After a wonderful lunch outside on the patio, me and the children settled down to watch Harry Potter. Harry is even more magical when he speaks french! Soon after that a little nap and then it was time for dinner. I was still super full from lunch but ate a little anyway. I had a salad and a little pasta. And now I'm here reflecting on my exciting day and wonderful day. And now I'm off to get some much needed sleep.

Bonne nuit!
Stephanie Pratt
European Adviosr Abroad

Au Revoir! - by Stephanie Pratt

Its 12:33 am. I guess I should be asleep, but at least I'll be tired for my flight. Tonight is my last night in California for a year. Its very surreal and it still hasn't quit sunk in that in 24 hours I will be in Paris. I'm so exited to meet the family and the kids and start my experiences there. My body is very weak and emotionally drained. The anxiety has made me physically sick these past couple days but as the hours tick by, i find that those feelings are replaced with excitement. I'm really going to miss a lot of things: family, friends, California in general. But I know that just around the bend is something amazing waiting for me and I can't wait to start my journey tomorrow. Well... See you in Paris!

Stephanie Pratt
European Advisor Abroad

un chat - by Stephanie Pratt, CE Adviser in France

I'm sitting here, listening to the AC rawr as it battles the heat in my house. Every time I go to type a sentence my cat gets in the way. I have to keep deleting stuff he types with his big paws, but its so hard to be mad at a cat who just wants some love and attention. Now he's meowing at me, like he's trying to tell me 'hey type your entry already'. His big eyes tell me to stop procrastinating, but the heat just makes it so easy to forget...

So I guess the reason for this entry is to tell you about my experience getting my visa. All I have to say is be prepared, have everything you need in perfect order and make sure you have it all. Oh also don't forget your money.

It was 8:30 am on July 15th as I got up to get ready for the big day to get my visa. I got dressed, double checked my list, brushed my teeth, checked my paper work again, put on some shoes, checked my paper work, brushed my hair, checked it again. It was 9:00 am now, and me and my Dad left for LA to the French consulate. My appointment was at 10:45 am, so we had plenty of time... I thought. The traffic was so INSANE. I live in orange county, if there we're no cars on the road I'd be there in 20 minutes. But instead I was 15 minutes late. Luckily they aren't to strict on that. The guard checked my papers at the door, and said it was okay that I was late, and to have a seat inside. I waited for a while, then it was my turn to go up to the window. I went up la di da di da it was fine. Then he asked for my credit card, so I handed him my Visa... DECLINED!

I looked at the man and asked him to try it again. Still declined. I had to run outside to find my dad, and to my luck my phone was dead. Eventually I found him and he gave me his card and his ID, and also a check in case it didn't work. Then I realized my Dad had accidentally given me my Moms visa card. But luckily the consulate worker was nice, and I'm assuming since me, my dad and my mom all had the same last name he let it slide. Then I got to sit and wait and wait some more. Eventually I was called up to the second window, she asked for all my paper work and copies of my Au pair agreement and the proof of enrollment in a language school. Copies? Copies? I thought I only needed a copy of my passport. By now it was almost noon, and they we're closing for lunch. The consulate worker wrote me a pass to get back in, after I had made copies of course. I walked out found my Dad, and read the note. It said come back at 2pm. Two hours of waiting.

Next we had to find a place to make copies, which shouldn't be hard but somehow it was. Eventually I found a place and asked for the copies. The nice man said, "25 cents please"... I didn't have a quarter, but he was nice enough to just let it go. Thanks copy man! My Dad and I passed the time driving around Beverly Hills and up and down Rodeo Drive. We got sandwiches at a Deli shop by a gas station, and they we're surprisingly good. It was nice to spend time with my Dad. It will probably be one of the last alone times we have together until I leave... It's weird to think that I won't see him for a year. It's frightening to think that I won't see my family, my friends, my house... for a whole year. I'm grateful actually that my appointment got messed up, because doing nothing with your Dad is nice sometimes.

Eventually it was 2pm, I went back handed the worker the copies, and my Visa adventure was done, and done correctly thanks to the nice consulate workers. An hour and a half car ride later I was back home and content with that fact that my departure date is creeping closer and closer. I guess now its time to think about packing stuff... Well France, see you soon!!!

Stephanie Pratt
European Adviser Abroad

P.S My summer to do list has gotten smaller. I can officially cross of pool party, BBQs, and went on a cruise to Mexico!

je suis de pomme frites - by Stephanie Pratt, CE Adviser in France

Bonjour!

It's officially summer! Schools out, no more finals!! I just have to survive summer then its off to France. Finally, I feel like I've been waiting so long to go. I started my ultimate summer checklist, and number one was disneyland. I can check that off, I went on Saturday... did I mention for free to! My friend, Amanda, works at disneyland so she got me and my other friend, Chelsea, in for free. We had no money so I packed us lunches... they weren't so good. My PB&J got really smooshed and it was hot and gross. I also brought fruit snacks those we're okay, but i really wanted a Dole Whip mmmmm. If you never had one your missing out on the best pineapple ice cream ever. We went on a lot of rides, and somehow I was convinced to go on the swinging gondola ride in CA adventure... It was horrifying! Its a huge Ferris wheel but the cabins swing and like shift, ugh never again. But I had a great time :)

Next on my Ultimate Summer 2010 list, BBQ! Any ideas for the whats next??

Stephanie Pratt

Au Pair Adviser Abroad

PS This me trying to not freak out on the swinging gondolas haha

Fraise - by Stephanie Pratt, CE Adviser in France

Hello,
Its time to really start thinking about how to spend my most American/Californian summer ever! Today the Ninot family offered me an official placement!!!! I can't wait to start getting everything together, getting my visa and signing up for the Au Pair classes. I'm so excited! My start date is a lot later than I had anticipated, August 26th, but I'm still making it back home by July 2011 to make the school year. I'll be living in Le Vesinet, just a 20 min train ride to Paris. I have my own bedroom in their beautiful 9 bedroom 3 story house! I'll be caring for 3 children, Romain (11), Chloe (8) and Margaux (4). My typical day will be to walk the children to school, then free time until around 4 when the children are out of school. I'll probably be doing my online school work, I'm taking a couple classes online through my college, or maybe this will be when my Au Pair classes are. Then I will walk them home, make a snack, play, help with homework, help them with bath time and make dinner for me and the children. Their parents Claire and David will be coming home around dinner time and then I'm free again. I have all weekends off and get a train pass. The Ninot family are very welcoming and friendly. I'm really looking forward to working with them and living in France.

First on my list of best last summer before France: Disneyland :D
Any suggestions for next week?

Stephanie Pratt
Au Pair Adviser Abroad

Orchirds in the Moonlight - by Stephanie Pratt, CE Adviser in France

Hi everyone! :)

So I talked to the Ninot family, and they're wonderful! Very nice and accommodating. They seem like a great family. We had a phone interview and I even talked to their past au pair and she had nothing but nice things to say about them. However, they emailed me on thursday and told me that they'd email me tomorrow (friday) with an answer-- either a formal offer or a pass. I'm still waiting for this email days later. The agency that the Ninot family is working with however emailed me the same day and said its a French holiday weekend and that the agency would contact me on monday. So, I don't know what to do!!! I have another family viewing my profile that I'm interested in as well, so if for a sad reason the Ninot family does not offer me a placement I hopefully have another family I can go with. This week has been crazy and its hard not to get lost and caught up in the confusing of placements. I just got to remember that when the right family is there it will work out.

At least there's only one more week of school and its summer time! Before I go to France for a year, I've decided I need to experience the most American, most Californian summer ever!!!!! Beach, hot dogs, BBQ's, slip'n'slide.... any suggestions?

Stephanie Pratt
Au Pair Advisor Abroad

meeting the inner explorer - by Stephanie Pratt, CE Adviser in France

très magnifique!

I have a possible family placement!!! I might pee my pants!

Today has been such a contrast of yesterday. Everything that could go wrong, went wrong. My photo final got waaaay messed up and in my rush to put together a last minute shoot I got a ticket for running a stop sign that I don't remember running. whoops!

This morning I woke up feeling really sad about yesterday, I slugged my way over to check my email and BAM there was an offer. :D Let me tell you little about them: They are the Ninot family and live in Vesinet which is a 30 min train ride to Paris. They have 3 kids, 11, 9 and 5. Did I mention they have a cat, I love cats!

I hope they offer me the placement, wish me luck and check back soon to hear more!

Stephanie Pratt,
Adviser Abroad: Au Pair in Europe

Learning to sail - by Stephanie Pratt, CE Adviser in France

Goooooood morning!

I know it's already 1pm, but I just woke up about an hour ago. It felt so good to sleep in! I started my day with some toast and some blueberries. After ready some trashy magazines and catching up on the latest star gossip, I moseyed down to the computer to check my email. Kristen from Cultural Embrace gave me some hopefully exciting news! Two families are reviewing my profile!!! I hope so much one of them offers me a placement! What a great start to a great morning/afternoon!

Now I have to make my contact sheet for my photo assignment. Hopefully photo goes smoothly today too! :)

I feel like celebrating french style, anyone have some mousse au chococlat?

sugar never tasted so good. - by Stephanie Pratt, CE Adviser in France

Hi there,

It's warm in my room and even though the fan is pointed directly on me, my fingers feel like they're melting into the keys. My brain is mush and I can barely understand the lyrics of the music drifting around me. Work is exhausting-- and who would think working in Camp Snoopy at Knotts Berry Farm would wear you out? Somehow holding down a button to make a ride go is tiring. My thoughts are barely making sense right now, it's like I have to play scrabble with myself to make anything sound alright. Does that even make sense...?

Anyway, these past weeks have left me feeling frustrated and anxious! I really just want to get to France already! I know the amazing CE staff (thanks Kristen!!) is working their hardest finding me a placement but I'm feeling a little stuck. It just feels so close, but so far at the same time. I stumbled on this program in a strange way actually, and the decision to Au Pair just came naturally. I knew I wanted to take time off school to travel, but I didn't know when, where or how. No tours-- I want to experience something new and become part of the culture, not watch it. I was considering maybe volunteering somewhere. While searching around the Internet I found Cultural Embrace though STA Travel, and their volunteer programs. Eventually it led me to find the Au Pair programs. It was a perfect match! I've been babysitting since I was 14 years old. I love kids, and living with a family( actually becoming part of the family) really appealed to me. I filled out my application around the end of October 2009. My original start date was January, and I was going to go for 6 months. Soon enough I got a placement offer, and of course I accepted. It was an awesome family only 20 minutes north of Paris. Two children, a boy and a girl, and the parents were so nice. I had my own cottage in their HUGE garden. It was a sweet deal. BUT the day spring session started at school the family dropped the program. I rushed to add classes, and ended up with one class. It was crazy!I had the option of maybe chaining what program to do to leave sooner. I ultimately decided to stay with the au pair program, I just couldn't imagine going any other way. Then my program coordinator, suggested we polish off my application after no one else was biting. My start date changed to June (cross your fingers!), I changed my duration to a year, and I quite smoking. I feel like my application is solid. And now I'm just waiting. The wait is the hardest part. I just keep thinking, do I suck or something? But I know when its time I will get placed and it will be with a great family. I stay positive by thinking about how amazing its going to be when i get there. My Friends and family have given me a lot of support and they're helping through the rollercoaster effect it can sometimes have. I just have to be patient. Patience is key... that's all you have until your placed. So instead of freaking out I enjoy the time I have with the people I love before I leave them for a year! I just think about how good of an experience this will be for me and the family I get placed with. I also think about how fat my portfolio will get with a new place to take pictures of!!! The only way to deal with the wait and the placement process to relax and take it day by day.

France I'm coming so you better be ready!!!

bonjour!!!! - By Stephanie Pratt, CE Adviser in France

Hi everyone! Let me begin by introducing myself, my name is Stephanie. I'm 20 years old and I'm a current student at Fullerton College, which is in Fullerton, California. (Orange County) I've lived here for basically my whole life and I love it here! I have a great journey ahead of me. I'm going to Au Pair in France for a year and I've been accepted as the Au Pair in Europe Advisor Abroad. I'm here to share my experiences with you!

I really enjoy traveling!!! So far I've been to some other states, like Oregon, Arizona, Nevada, and Washington D.C. I've been to Mexico for a day. But the best travel experience I've had hands down was when I went to England and France April 2007. My history teacher set up a trip through EF tours, and some of my friends, classmates and my teacher went on a 10 day tour. That trip inspired me to travel, to see and to experience new places. After France, when I come back from Au Pairing, I want to road trip across America-- from the west coast to the east coast.

My history teacher, Mr. Muhovich definitely inspired me to travel. He stressed how traveling rounds out a person. He taught me that there is more to see and more to experience than whats in your own backyard. My desire to explore is closely connected to the Cultural Embrace mission: discover differences and share similarities. I want to do just that, I want to see how different and wonderful the world is. Traveling decays the animosity in the world by shedding light on different people and different cultures. I believe with experience comes wisdom, as Mark Twain said it, "travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and the narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one's life time."

This is just the beginning of a great adventure ahead!