Freak out. What an excellent compound verb.
I picked this word to name my blog because it's an important action you will be doing in your way of becoming an Au Pair.
Your parents will probably freak out as soon as they find out (if they haven't yet), you will personally freak out when you get your first match, on the plane on your way to NY, on the way to that first encounter with you host family and many times along your year.
But hey! Don't think that I mean it in a bad way. You'll be freaking out because you will be daring yourself,  since the moment you say YES to the program and in my opinion there's nothing better than that, to grow as a person, to gain one of the most valuable experience you will ever get in your life.
I am going to be 100% honest here, not everything is perfect, but nothing is, no matter where you are.
You are gonna be the main character in this crazy "movie, " and your choices and attitudes are the ones who will lead you to success.
There is no need to be afraid. Even though this will depend on you, I assure you, this is about the year of your life.
Remember: You think big, you get big.

Love,

(Freaking) Julie.