Often called "The Gathering Place", the Hawaiian island of O'ahu is the perfect place to meet and connect with your au pair classmates. Its beautiful landscapes include stunning cliffs, the glittering Pacific Ocean, and lush greenery as far as the eye can see.
Texas Course Details
In-person courses include both pre-weekend and post-weekend assignments. Pre-weekend assignments open 4 weeks before the scheduled weekend and are due 1 week before the city weekend. After the weekend, you will have 4 weeks to complete your coursework.
Discover & Connect in the U.S.
Learn about community and American culture, and make global connections through our Discover & Connect in the U.S. course. Created just for au pairs, this combo course will help you navigate the many emotions and experiences that come with living abroad in the United States. Build connections with your au pair classmates through a variety of excursions, activities, and engaging in class discussions.
To accommodate travel time between the airport and class, plan to arrive for your course on a flight NO LATER than 10:30 am on Thursday and depart no earlier than 4:00 pm on Sunday.
Attendance is mandatory beginning on Thursday with check-in, and does not end until Sunday at 1:00 pm. Students are expected to attend the full weekend and complete all assignments to receive their Completion Letter. We understand emergencies and important scheduling conflicts can occur, so please contact the program coordinator as soon as possible if there is a situation that prevents you from meeting any of these requirements.
After registering for this course, you’ll get a link to join Canvas the day that your pre-assignments become available.
Hours include pre-weekend assignments, post-weekend assignments, and a course evaluation. Check with your au pair agency regarding hours and credits, as requirements vary. Scheduled activities may be subject to change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances and may be different from previous weekends.
Courses are offered in collaboration with
Live the Real Cowboy Life
Imagine this:
You're riding horseback through authentic Texas Hill Country, learning to rope like a real cowboy, eating BBQ under the stars, and making friends from around the world - all while earning your educational credits.
This isn't just another weekend class. Our Texas course gives you an authentic immersion into cowboy culture at the Mayan Dude Ranch in Bandera: the "Cowboy Capital of the World." Students call it "life-changing," and many say it's the best weekend of their entire au pair year.
You'll discover American culture from a Texas perspective: exploring everything from the American Dream and U.S. history to Texas's unique cowboy heritage. Through interactive activities like Cultural Show & Tell and Circle Talk, you'll connect deeply with au pairs from around the world while developing real skills in cultural awareness and conflict resolution that you'll use throughout your au pair year.
You'll start in San Antonio, exploring the historic Alamo and experiencing the vibrant River Walk. Then you'll head to the ranch for two and a half days of complete immersion: horseback riding, cowboy breakfasts, line dancing, campfires with s'mores, and engaging classes taught by passionate instructors who make history come alive.
"I dreamed of going to Texas for a long time and I thought it's a nice chance to combine a trip and the credits. I was really excited but I never expected it to be SO GOOD! I loved everything about this weekend from the first second on. The instructors were super nice and welcoming, the location was AMAZING, the activities were super fun, the people I met became friends and I made memories for a lifetime! Thank you for the opportunity to experience Texas in the most amazing way!"
— Florentine S., Germany
Worth 60-72 hours (equivalent to 6 educational credits) toward your au pair requirements. Housing, transportation between locations, and all activities are included.
New York City Course Details
In-person courses include both pre-weekend and post-weekend assignments. Pre-weekend assignments open 3 weeks before the scheduled weekend and are due 1 week before the city weekend. After the weekend, you will have 3 weeks to complete your coursework.
Performing Arts (In-Person)
Deepen your understanding of the performing arts through classes, hands-on workshops, and excursions! This course offers workshops in subjects like drama and dance, as well as the chance to watch a performance in action.
No performing arts background? That's OK! Au Pair Weekend's focus is more on the creative process and becoming comfortable with trying something new. We offer a fun, encouraging environment to practice taking your skills to the next level.
To accommodate travel time between the airport and class, plan to arrive for your course on a flight NO LATER than 11:00 am on Friday and depart no earlier than 7:30 pm on Sunday.
Attendance is mandatory beginning on Friday with check-in, and does not end until Sunday at 4:30 pm. Students are expected to attend the full weekend and complete all assignments to receive their Completion Letter. We understand emergencies and important scheduling conflicts can occur, so please contact the program coordinator as soon as possible if there is a situation that prevents you from meeting any of these requirements.
After registering for this course, you’ll get a link to join Canvas the day that your pre-assignments become available.
Hours include pre-weekend assignments, post-weekend assignments, and a course evaluation. Check with your au pair agency regarding hours and credits, as requirements vary. Scheduled activities may be subject to change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances and may be different from previous weekends.
Visual Arts (In-Person)
Deepen your understanding of the visual arts through classes, hands-on workshops, and excursions! Participate in workshops on street art and photography taught by artists in the field and visit a world-class art museum. All you need to bring is a cameraphone. We'll provide you with everything else you need to get your creativity flowing!
No experience necessary! This is a fun, encouraging environment for you to test out your interests and push your skills to the next level.
To accommodate travel time between the airport and class, plan to arrive for your course on a flight NO LATER than 11:00 am on Friday and depart no earlier than 7:30 pm on Sunday.
Attendance is mandatory beginning on Friday with check-in, and does not end until Sunday at 4:30 pm. Students are expected to attend the full weekend and complete all assignments to receive their Completion Letter. We understand emergencies and important scheduling conflicts can occur, so please contact the program coordinator as soon as possible if there is a situation that prevents you from meeting any of these requirements.
After registering for this course, you’ll get a link to join Canvas the day that your pre-assignments become available.
Hours include pre-weekend assignments, post-weekend assignments, and a course evaluation. Check with your au pair agency regarding hours and credits, as requirements vary. Scheduled activities may be subject to change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances and may be different from previous weekends.
Arts & Entertainment (Online)
Build your creative skills and get in touch with your inner artist! Get an in-depth look at both visual and performing arts in the United States.
Already have experience in the arts? Deepen your skills with this course! No background in arts and entertainment? That's okay! You will practice exciting visual and performing arts skills while learning about influential artists and artistic styles from the United States.
Our activities and classes will teach you about photography, theater, film, dance, music, and graphic design. You will learn about the important role the arts play in individuals and communities, and hear valuable tips from professionals about how to pursue a career in the entertainment industry, including an exclusive interview with an Emmy award winning director and producer!
Courses are offered in collaboration with
What Students Are Saying
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"One of the best experiences in my life. I did not want it to end."
Olga F.
Performing Arts, March 2025
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"My weekend with Au Pair Weekend was an incredible experience! The team was welcoming, organized, and full of positive energy, making me feel right at home from the start."
Mirela B.
Performing Arts, August 2025
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"This experience allowed me to meet wonderful people and gain a lot of knowledge about art."
Kelly Yohana G.
Performing Arts, April 2025
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"I really enjoyed the Au Pair Weekend in New York! It was a fantastic and unforgettable experience that allowed me to explore the city, meet wonderful people, and learn more about art and creativity."
Lady Nathaly C.
Performing Arts, April 2025
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"I didn't expect this weekend to be as amazing as it was! Extremely prepared and wonderful teachers! The experience was amazing!!"
Penelope C.
Performing Arts, March 2025
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"I loved it! The teachers were excellent and the content and activities were super fun and interesting! I will definitely do other classes with Au Pair Weekend!"
Nicole L.
Visual Arts, August 2025
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"It was a lovely atmosphere during the weekend. Everyone was really nice and I got to meet a lot of wonderful people. I also had the opportunity to see beautiful places and learn more about American culture and art."
Martha S.
Performing Arts, March 2025
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"I think I gained a better understanding of what performing arts actually is. It helped me to see where my strengths lie and things that I need to work on. Overall I really enjoyed the weekend."
Shara-Leigh A.
Performing Arts, March 2025
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"It truly was an amazing experience that pulled me out of my comfort zone!"
Yolandi D.
Performing Arts, June 2025
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"It was truly an amazing course! I'm grateful for all I've learned, and I've loved every class and all instructors; they were truly amazing!"
Patricia M.
Visual Arts, June 2025
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"Thank you so much for this weekend! It has been such an incredible experience meeting new people and doing activities I had never done before."
Patricia M.
Visual Arts, June 2025
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"The course was perfect in the sense that I learned new skills that I can then apply in my daily life and benefit from. I just love that."
Ambar H.
Visual Arts, August 2025
Details: Advanced English
Intermediate or Advanced English
Discover & Connect in Hawaii
IN-PERSON ENGLISH LANGUAGE COURSES
36 HOURS / EQUIVALENT TO 3 CREDITs OR 60 or 72 HOURS / EQUIVALENT TO 6 CREDITS
Get the most out of your time in the United States by improving your English skills! Learn about American accents, cultural traditions, and travel tips - all while exploring the sights and history of a major U.S. city! Learn to speak like a local using American expressions and idioms. Practice your listening and speaking skills with exciting classroom discussions, workshops, and excursions and strengthen your reading and writing skills with written assignments.
Learning about culture shock stages and self care practices will help you overcome the struggles of living in a new country. Developing your fluency and confidence will help you express yourself, so that you can more easily connect with your host family and local community.
This course is offered at two levels: Intermediate or Advanced. Click here to see which is right for you!
Available In:
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New York City: Practice your skills in the heart of it all! Use your English to navigate a diverse city full of different cultures and languages. (36 hours / 3 credits)
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San Diego: Learn about American culture from our expert instructors and enjoy the laid back beach culture. Advanced only. (60 or 72 hours / 6 credits)
Which Track Is Right For You?
Performing Arts
Dance, Film, Perform
Perfect if you love theater, musicals, movement, and building confidence through performance
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Theater & Drama with Broadway professionals
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Dance workshops
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Film & content creation
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Improv comedy
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Music & rhythm workshops
TOP STUDENT PICKS:
✓ Dance Workshop
✓ Central Park
✓ Theater History Class
Visual Arts
Photo, Sketch, Create
Perfect if you love photography, museums, galleries, and hands-on creative projects
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Photography Lesson
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Museum sketching experience
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Art & color design theory
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Mixed media project
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Visual arts history
TOP STUDENT PICKS:
✓ MET Museum Visit
✓ Photography Workshop
✓ Art History in NYC Class
What You'll Actually Do in NYC
Not just lectures — hands-on experiences at iconic NYC locations
Student Favorite
Dance Workshop
Learn Broadway-style choreography from professional dancers. Move, express, and build confidence through dance. This isn't about being perfect — it's about having fun and discovering what your body can do!
Most Popular Excursion
Film in Central Park
Create a 3-minute video at Bethesda Fountain and other iconic Central Park locations. Learn filmmaking techniques, acting, and content creation you can use for social media and beyond.
Student Favorite
MET Museum Experience
Sketch masterworks in the Metropolitan Museum's European Paintings gallery. Learn to see art with an artist's eye and bring home your own interpretations of world-famous paintings.
Highly Rated
SCARE Photography
Master the 5 SCARE principles of photography at Times Square and Central Park. Learn composition techniques that will transform your Instagram game and travel photos forever.
Student Favorite
Comedy Sportz Improv
Watch professional improv comedy at Comedy Sportz, then try it yourself! Break out of your shell, laugh until it hurts, and learn improv techniques from the pros.
Popular Workshop
Street Art Workshop
Learn color design theory and create your own street art piece. Understand the history of street art in NYC and express yourself through this bold, public art form.
Intermediate or Advanced English
Practice your English in one of the biggest cities in the U.S.!
Choose the vibe that's best for you!
Learn about American accents and expressions
Practice your English in one of the biggest cities in the U.S.!
Practice your English skills in an encouraging environment!
Get the most out of your time in the United States by improving your English skills! Learn about American accents, cultural traditions, and travel tips - all while getting to explore the sights and history of New York City or San Diego!
Practice your listening and speaking skills with interesting classroom discussions and workshops, and strengthen your reading and writing skills with written assignments. Learning American expressions and idioms will help you speak like a native! And best of all, this in-person course means that you get to practice everything you learn during the weekend with the friends you've made along the way! Like all APW courses, these are approved for the Au Pair J-1 visa category.
Upcoming NYC Courses
Click the course name to register.
Scroll down for course details.
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Course Details: Discover & Connect in the U.S.
📚 Course Format & Value
This intensive 4-day weekend combines learning, adventure, and connection. You'll complete assignments before the weekend (at your own pace) that set you up for deeper discussions during the weekend. Topics you'll explore before arriving include the American Dream, conflict resolution styles, and preparing your Cultural Show & Tell presentation.
During the weekend, you'll participate in interactive classes, hands-on activities, and real-world excursions—all designed to help you apply what you're learning. Everything from exploring the Alamo to your horseback ride includes educational elements that bring classroom concepts to life.
After the weekend, you'll complete reflection assignments that help you process your experience and think about how to apply these skills throughout your au pair year. Many students say these reflections are when the "aha moments" really hit.
What's Included in Your Registration:
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60 or 72 educational hours (equivalent to 6 credits) - meets annual requirement!
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3 nights housing (San Antonio hotel + 2 nights at the ranch)
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All transportation between locations
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All meals during the ranch stay (Thursday dinner through Sunday breakfast)
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All excursions and activities (horseback riding, museums, line dancing, etc.)
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Expert instruction from passionate teachers (177+ reviews!)
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Course materials and Canvas learning platform access
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Certificate of completion
Worth $1,179-$1,199 - Everything included, no hidden fees!
⚠️ Different agencies have different hour requirements - don't worry, we've got you covered! Whether you need 60 or 72 hours to fulfill your educational requirement, you can choose your track during registration. Both options give you the same amazing weekend experience.
Location & Experience
San Antonio, one of Texas' oldest chartered settlements, is full of history and diversity. You'll begin the weekend by stepping back in time at the Alamo, an 18th-century Franciscan mission that was the location of an important battle site for Texans fighting for independence from Mexico in 1836.
Explore the city's modern side with a stroll down the famous River Walk and an evening in San Antonio. Then, starting Friday, you'll have the unique opportunity to be immersed in Texas's famous "cowboy culture" as guests of the Mayan Dude Ranch in Bandera, the "Cowboy Capital of the World!"
Housing & Transportation
Three nights of housing included:
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Thursday night: Historic Hotel Gibbs on Alamo Plaza or Hotel 1914 Historic Alamo Riverwalk
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Friday & Saturday nights: Mayan Dude Ranch in Bandera, Texas
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All standard housing includes two students per room with shared bathroom
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Transportation between locations provided and included in course price
Optional upgrades available during registration:
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Private room upgrade
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Additional night (Wednesday before or Sunday after course)
Note for drivers: Overnight parking in downtown San Antonio costs approximately $45. No parking fees at the Mayan Dude Ranch.
What You'll Experience & Learn
Discover America Through Texas:
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Cowboy History & Culture - #1 favorite class! Explore authentic Texas heritage with artifacts and storytelling
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The American Dream - Understand U.S. history and what shapes American culture today
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U.S. Geography & Travel - Discover different regions and get insider travel tips
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San Antonio & Texas - Deep dive into local history from the Alamo to modern Texas
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Current Events - Think critically about what's happening in America today
Connect & Grow:
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Cultural Awareness - #1 favorite! Navigate cultural differences with confidence
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Conflict Resolution - Learn practical skills for your au pair family and beyond
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Community Engagement - Discover ways to make a difference where you live
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Understanding Diversity - Explore what diversity means in the U.S.
Interactive Activities Students Love:
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Cultural Show & Tell - Share YOUR culture with au pairs from around the world
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Circle Talk - A safe space to share your au pair journey and feel heard
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Barnga Game - Experience cultural norms and culture shock in a fun simulation
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Ask Me Activity - Practice active listening and connection skills
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Small group discussions and collaborative learning throughout
💡 Real Skills You'll Use: Students tell us they use what they learn here throughout their entire au pair year—from resolving conflicts with their host family to confidently navigating American culture. These aren't just classes; they're practical tools for your life in the U.S.
Excursions & Activities
All of our excursions aren't just fun, they're designed to help you apply what you're learning in real-world settings. From understanding American history at the Alamo to experiencing authentic Texas culture at the ranch, every activity has educational value that enhances your learning.
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Horseback Riding - #1 favorite excursion! Ride through authentic Texas Hill Country
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The Alamo - Step into Texas history at this iconic mission and battle site
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San Antonio Riverwalk - Explore the city with a photo challenge that gets you engaged
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Frontier Times Museum - Guided tour with Rebecca Norton featuring authentic cowboy artifacts and storytelling
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Line Dancing Lessons - Learn authentic Texas moves and embrace cowboy culture
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Cowboy Breakfast - Traditional ranch-style breakfast (students rave about this!)
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Campfire & S'mores - Under the stars with guitar music—pure magic
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Cowboy Olympics - Fun ranch competitions where you try roping and other cowboy skills
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Hayride - Scenic ride around the ranch property
"I was positively surprised that it actually is like you imagine it!" - Kim K., Germany
What Students Are Saying (Texas)
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"One of the best au pair class experiences I've ever had (it's my second year being an Au Pair). They planned a lot of different activities that were all fun! And the stuff we learned in classes that's usually boring was still super interesting. Texas was definitely a fun time and I would do it again!!"
Sophie K.
Germany
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"I felt like a real 'cowgirl' getting the whole experience! The Ranch was beautiful and the people on the Ranch were so much fun and just so lovely! Definitely some of the most fun I've had here in the US! It exceeded my expectations by far!"
Tinize H.
South Africa
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"The ranch, be prepared to live the best experience of your life that you will never forget, you will literally live the cowboy life for real! The food is AMAZING, the activities are so fun and traditional. My only regret is not being able to do this weekend again! but i won't never ever forget it NEVER"
Fanny D.
France
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"The facilitators were amazing — always smiling, full of energy, and ready to answer any questions. The activities were engaging, and the group atmosphere made it easy to connect and have fun. I'm extremely grateful for this opportunity!"
Emma B.
France
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"The food was absolutely incredible! Every single meal was delicious, but the meat was definitely my favorite part — it reminded me so much of home that I actually got emotional eating it. It was the best food I've had in the U.S. so far!"
Luana F.D.B.
Brazil
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"One of the most memorable cultural experiences I've ever had. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with warm Southern hospitality. I made friendships that will last a lifetime. I would highly recommend this to any au pair!"
Chloe G.
Ireland