Summer in Shanghai

I decided to step outside of my comfort zone and travel to China during the summer before my last year at university. Instead of pursuing a typical summer internship in my hometown, I wanted to try something completely new and immerse myself in a culture much different from my own. I was very nervous at first and not sure what exactly to expect, but I am so glad I took this leap of faith and lived with a host family in Shanghai, teaching a little 4 year old boy English.
While it is not always easy being so far away from home in a completely new environment, I feel that Wanderlust did everything possible to make me feel comfortable and confident during my stay. I felt a personal investment from the WAC team, and that they really got to know me and my situation while I was in China, instead of treating me like a "client". The WAC program provides many helpful things that not all other organizations of this kind do--they organize cultural activities with fellow au pairs which are both fun and educational, they enroll you in a Mandarin class to enhance language skills, and provide a helpful orientation when you first arrive.
You cannot come into this experience expecting everything to go smoothly and things to be perfect. There were definitely unexpected challenges and hard days, but thanks to the 24/7 support I received I was able to resolve any problems. It is important to keep an open-mind when doing something like this, and also to remain patient and understanding. No matter how much you prepare, culture shock is a real thing! Thankfully, WAC will be there whenever you need any help or just someone to listen to you.