New York, USA
My name is Josephine and I am an Apex Care Professional and a trained Occupational Therapist from Germany. I worked hard to achieve my professional qualifications before coming to the United States. Joining Apex allowed me to combine my passion for child development with cultural exchange. However, what truly made this experience transformative was my Host Family.
From the very first day I never felt like an employee in their home, I felt like a family member.
There was never a strict employer–employee dynamic. Instead there was mutual respect, trust, and open communication. My Host Family welcomed me not only into their house, but into their lives. My opinions were valued and my ideas were heard, not only because of my professional background as an Occupational Therapist, more because they genuinely respected me as a person.
One of the most meaningful aspects of my experience has been the trust and freedom they have given me. I was always allowed to host visitors: friends from the United States as well as family and friends from Germany. Even longer visits were welcomed warmly. My boyfriend visited about once a month and rather than seeing it as an inconvenience, my Host Family embraced it. I was allowed to include him in my working schedule and in activities with the children together. Their openness and generosity created an environment where I felt completely accepted.
Beyond our immediate household, they introduced me to their extended family: my host dad’s brother and mother as well as my host mum’s mother and aunts and I felt genuinely welcomed by everyone. I was never introduced as “the caretaker,” but as someone who really belongs to them. Being included in these family relationships made my experience even more meaningful and deepened my sense of connection.
I have grown a lot during my time with this family. Through working closely with the ABA therapists who support my host daughter, I gained invaluable insight into interdisciplinary collaboration. I was not only included in conversations and strategies, I felt truly seen and respected as a professional. My background as an Occupational Therapist was acknowledged and appreciated. Instead of feeling like “just” childcare support, I felt like a collaborative partner in my host child’s development.
Being part of this team strengthened my clinical thinking, my communication skills, and my confidence in professional settings. Observing and working alongside ABA therapists expanded my understanding of behavioral approaches and reinforced the importance of consistency, patience, and individualized care. This experience has shaped me deeply and will influence my future professional path.
At the same time, my growth has not only been professional: it has been profoundly personal.
Living abroad challenges you in unexpected ways. Through the support of my Host Family, I have become stronger and more self-confident. I have learned to advocate for myself and my needs. I have learned that it is okay to set boundaries and to say no when necessary. I feel more secure in who I am and more capable of standing up for myself.
This year has also given me the courage to let go of negative influences and relationships in my life that no longer serve me. Being in an environment built on respect, appreciation, and healthy communication showed me what supportive relationships truly look like. That example has changed me. I feel more authentic, more self-aware and more empowered to live in alignment with my values.
Also important is how appreciated I feel in their home. My work is acknowledged, my efforts are recognized and my presence is valued. Expectations are clear, feedback is constructive, and communication is open. This balance of professionalism and warmth creates a truly exceptional work environment. Even though my work never feels like work.
Another unforgettable part of my experience has been traveling with them. The vacations we shared were beautiful and meaningful and I am deeply grateful that they included me. Even during trips, I never felt like “the helping hand”. I felt like I was part of the family. Those moments strengthened our bond and created memories I will carry with me forever.
At the same time, my growth has not only been professional: it has been profoundly personal.
Living abroad challenges you in unexpected ways. Through the support of my Host Family, I have become stronger and more self-confident. I have learned to advocate for myself and my needs. I have learned that it is okay to set boundaries and to say no when necessary. I feel more secure in who I am and more capable of standing up for myself.
This year has also given me the courage to let go of negative influences and relationships in my life that no longer serve me. Being in an environment built on respect, appreciation, and healthy communication showed me what supportive relationships truly look like. That example has changed me. I feel more authentic, more self-aware and more empowered to live in alignment with my values.
Also important is how appreciated I feel in their home. My work is acknowledged, my efforts are recognized and my presence is valued. Expectations are clear, feedback is constructive, and communication is open. This balance of professionalism and warmth creates a truly exceptional work environment. Even though my work never feels like work.
Another unforgettable part of my experience has been traveling with them. The vacations we shared were beautiful and meaningful and I am deeply grateful that they included me. Even during trips, I never felt like “the helping hand”. I felt like I was part of the family. Those moments strengthened our bond and created memories I will carry with me forever.
One of the moments that meant a lot to me were the breakfasts and conversations with my host mum. Sitting together in the morning, talking about life, work and something in between brought me so much joy and comfort. These conversations were not only small rituals, they were meaningful exchanges that strengthened our bond. They gave me space to reflect, to laugh, and to feel understood. Those simple breakfasts became a source of happiness and emotional support that I will always treasure.
Cultural exchange in our home has been authentic and reciprocal. They encourage me to share my traditions with the children and at the same time they have intentionally included me in American holidays, traditions and life. I have experienced the United States not as a visitor, more as someone who truly belongs to it.
What makes this experience even more special is that it does not feel temporary. The connection we have built goes far beyond a program year. I sincerely hope and truly believe that our relationship will continue long after I return to Germany. They have become more than a Host Family to me.
For all of these reasons, I wholeheartedly believe my Host Family deserves to be recognized as Host Family of the Year. They do not only empower their children, they empower the people who care for them. They have helped me grow into a stronger professional, a more confident person, and a more authentic version of myself. That impact will stay with me for the rest of my life.
Best,
Josephine Finlay
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At Apex Social, we believe in care that transforms, not just for the children we serve, but for everyone involved. If you’re inspired by the Fisher family’s story, now is the time to start your own Apex Social journey.
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