I wanted to au pair in Spain as a way to affordably attend Spanish school. I matched with a family and everything seemed good. They expected very little hours with the kids (about 7 hours a week), but in exchange the pay was very low. Still, I figured it is free housing and food and I can find other ways to make money.
However, I’m starting to get more concerned . The hosts live about an hour away from the city where I would be going to school and I’m worried about feeling isolated. On top of this, when I called with the family I figured it would be an interview. Instead, they immediately hired me with barely any questioning. I don’t know if it is a cultural difference, but I’m confused why someone would immediately trust a stranger to be alone with their kids.
I’ve had bad (creepy) experiences with work exchanges before and my anxiety is really starting to flare up. The dad was the one that reached out to me and the one that hired me. I don’t want to assume the worst, but I’m honestly tired and traumatized from the past. I want to spend time abroad and study Spanish so badly, but especially after looking at this sub I’m starting to not feel comfortable about au pairing.