Tomorrow I was to be contacted and told where to show up on my first day (which would be a few days before the Opening Ceremony). Mr. Turner said I would probably be stationed at one athletic building for the entirety of the competition. Just assisting athletes and the public with anything they might need. I certainly was looking forward to this job, seeing all the famous athletes I had seen so many times on T.V. Yes, I know it is a bit childish, but really, like you wouldn’t be doing the same thing.

And, one of the best things about this job was the hotel room I was being provided for the length of the competition. The IOC wanted all of their staff together, and since competition started very early and went late, it was extremely convenient not to have to commute. I still could not believe how lucky I got. A nice hotel room for a few weeks and a great salary! My home town was pulling out all the stops for this; they wanted to look great while the entire world was watching.

Little did I know, my job started the next day. When I was contacted the next morning, I was told that I needed to pack some things and report to the hotel by that afternoon. I was unnaturally excited about starting this job, so I hopped out of bed and grabbed a suitcase. I threw everything I could in there, not that there was much to throw, my wardrobe was fairly limited. Being in college is not the best for one’s financial needs (a.k.a. clothing).

When I arrived at the Marriott, the city’s largest hotel, I was greeted by a large sign reading: “IOC workers to 5th floor meeting room.” As I passed through the lobby to make my way to the elevators, I was struck by the immense scale of the hotel. The lobby was huge, with high ceilings, and a gleaming tile floor that I swear I could see my reflection in. There were numerous little alcoves with chairs and couches and flowers everywhere. I probably looked like an idiot stumbling around the lobby trying to take everything in. But, something suddenly clicked in my mind, I didn’t want to be late for my first day.