Violetta - Special Needs Care Provider
Fort Belvoir, VA
I’ve grown a lot. Especially out of my comfort zone. I’ve become very confident in myself and my abilities. I know my worth and I will never underestimate myself again.
Marlene - Physical Therapist
Springfield, VA
Looking back, this journey has taught me that it’s always worth taking a chance, because that’s where real growth happens. I’ve grown by stepping outside of my comfort zone, learning from new experiences, and trusting the process. Being surrounded by so many supportive people has made a huge difference and helped me become more independent and confident, both personally and professionally.
Emily - Occupational Therapist
Herndon, VA
Right now, I am the best version of myself – I gained a lot of confidence over the past 7 months here, which has so helped me with communication and working skills.
Victoria - Nurse
Arlington, VA
Knowing my own worth and realizing that things don’t always have to be perfect.
Anna - Physical Therapist
Rockville, MD
It has definitely been a character-building journey. With lessons on personal boundaries and standing up for myself. Not letting other people take me for granted.
Sarah - Occupational Therapist
Alexandria, VA
Because I haven’t been long enough on this journey, I can’t say much yet, but it’s definitely out of my comfort zone, and I’m really looking forward to what’s coming.
Joshua - Nurse
Arlington, VA
My journey has shaped me so profoundly, especially personally but also professionally. I’m much more open to learning new things. I made a lot of new friends through Apex with whom I can do and experience a great deal in my free time, as we all get along very well. Despite having somewhat different interests, this allows one to discover new hobbies.
On the other side, I’m learning more about caring for children at home, including a child with special needs and a healthy, developed toddler. I’m learning more about the disease of my host child and how to interact with her throughout the days. I also improve my English skills every day, which is such a big benefit for the rest of my life.
Pia - Physical Therapist
Cabin John, MD
I’ve gained a much better understanding of what life with a child with special needs is really like—its challenges and its opportunities. This will definitely help me in my future job in Germany. I’ve also become more open with new people and more eager to try new things.
Franziska - Physical Therapist
Montclair, NJ
This journey has been so much more than I ever expected. Personally, I’ve grown a lot by learning more about myself — my values, what truly makes me happy, and both my strengths and my weaknesses. Professionally, one thing I deeply appreciate is spending the entire day with just one patient — my host child. It’s a completely new and meaningful experience, especially compared to the fast-paced 20-minute schedule I was used to as a physical therapist.
Annelie - Educator
Alpine, NJ
Looking back, this journey has helped me gain confidence and discover new things about myself. I’ve grown in ways I didn’t expect and learned to trust myself more, both personally and professionally.
Maja - Occupational Therapist
Arlington, VA
I think even if I thought I was patient, I gained a lot more patience here. Also, seeing how milestones are reached and how the kids do a little better every day, it is just awesome to witness and be part of as well as partially being the reason for them to grow in their abilities and behaviors.
Jana - Occupational Therapist
Decatur, GA
Just go and do it! Or at least try!
Laura - Social Work (BA)
Atlanta, GA
I’ve gained a new level of independence and learned to do things I might not have had the courage to try before. It has also helped me understand my strengths and weaknesses better and to stand up for myself in new situations. At the same time, it has strengthened my confidence in working with others and adapting to different environments, especially in the field of working with children with special needs.