I'm Learning New Things Everyday

I'm getting to learn my way around Whistler on the bus and by walking, On my day off I plan to walk all around town. They have a good public transportation system around town. The bus usually comes ever 5-7 minutes during the Olympics. This makes it convenient. It usually takes me about 1 hours to get to work. I'm glad that instead of 3 hours a day commuting by bus, it only takes 2 hours round trip. All volunteers get free public transportation if we are wearing our credentials. Even though I spend 2 hours on the bus, I end up talking to people from different cultures, places, and walks of life. I believe that this is the most interesting part of my Olympic adventure.

I've also learned that I could never be a member of the press or media. It is a very competitive occupation. It's cut-throat and they do whatever they can to get the story first. The pressure is incredible. It is my job to help them as much as I can. Sometimes I answer questions about the media center, transportation, events, and Whistler Olympic Park. I also make sure that the workplace is clean and tidy and that all paper, compostables, and plastic bottles are sorted. The Games are trying to be a green games. Unfortunately, not everyone is mindful of this. Lot's of paper is wasted making copies of results, athletes, and any other information that is needed to know about the events they are covering.

Since I am working at the ski jump and cross country skiing, I am learning so much about these two events. I've been able to watch some of the practices and events on the many flat-screen TV's in the media center. Today's Nordic Combined, which involves both of this events was so exciting to watch. I got goosebumps. Johnny Spillane was the first American to ever medal in the Nordic Combined. I've been working at the press conferences and I got to see him because I'm the one who passes the microphone to the reporters who have questions. The athletes are so young. It brings back memories of my days as a high school and college athlete.

On matter what other issues people have concerning the Olympics, it makes my heart happy to see athletes from all over the world compete to the best of their abilities. I have seen the joy they are having here. It is their passion and hard work that makes every Olympic athletes winners. I know that is sounds like a cliche, but as a volunteer I am in awe.