The keys to success

The Au Pair program is the best thing you can do if you want to experience life in the United States, but keep in mind that like everything in life, it involves human beings and you can't have control over them. That's why I tell you: Pick your host family carefully. They are going to be the most important people during your year; they are going to be the ones supporting you but also setting the rules. Make sure you are going to be comfortable with the life they live.

I know you are very excited about getting a new family and you have to be open about it but don't be afraid of saying NO to a family. Deep in your heart, you will have the feeling if they are the right ones for you.
They are looking for the best match, the best girl who is going to be the one spending most of the time with their most precious value in the world, their kids. But this is YOUR experience too, so you might want to ask for references, ask them to give you the email or contact information of their previous Au pair. Those girls are going to be the best reference you can get and don't be shy, clarify all your doubts.

Prepare a set of question to ask the family whenever you Skype. Be smart about it and remember, express interest in the family and the kids in particular! The more you get involve, the more they are going to love you!

You are going to have so much fun, getting to know new people, new places, friends, etc. but like it or not, don't forget you are also working, and that's your first duty. 
Happy kids= Happy family = Happy Au Pair. That is the equation. Keep each other happy, and you will have the time of your life!

Since most of your experiences are going to be new, I would say: don't be afraid, always ask and pay more attention to the things you are doing. There are going to be awkward moments but laugh at them. For example, I'm from Argentina, and we always say Hi with a kiss, even to strangers; imagine how hard it was at the beginning to shake hands instead of leaning myself to kiss people on the cheek. If I weren't paying attention, I would do it, and of course, people would look at me not understanding! Although it was very embarrassing, I laugh and explain; I wasn't trying to invade your personal space, dudes! It is just the way we greet in my country! If you have a funny story, i'd love to read it, please!

Do you want to improve your English? I know this might sound harsh, but try to hang out with people who does not speak your same language. Although it's nice to have someone to talk to without searching for words all the time; if they are going to be your only friends, you English is not going to get better.

Take advantage of your time there! Partying and travelling are awesome, but there are other interesting stuff that if you think about it, they can definitely improve your future. Look for volunteering programs! Invest your time in something that will improve your resume for future jobs. Try to find classes related to what you want to do in the future. And if you don't know what to do with your life, this is the perfect time to try new things, make mistakes and find that out!

I hope I gave you a good point of view to help you make up your mind about doing this or not. For sure there are going to be days you will feel very sad or happy, but that's life everywhere. By doing this, you will gain valuable experience for your future; this will be the proof that you can adapt yourself to new situations, and deal with them.
Besides that,  ask yourself, what's the worst thing that can happen? Going back home? Take the chance, make it yours.

You are the sum total of everything you've ever seen, heard, eaten, smelled, been told, forgot - it's all there. Everything influences each of us, and because of that I try to make sure that my experiences are positive. - Maya Angelou