For sports enthusiasts, being in Paris to witness the majestic Olympic Games is a dream come true. A Malaysian woman, however, spent nearly RM12,000 to go to Paris for a volunteer job in the Olympics.
In her Facebook posts, Andrea shared that she has always been a huge fan of Paris, and it was her 4th visit to the country, which was the most memorable visit. If you’re wondering why, Andrea said it was due to her love for sports, too.
“It’s for the experience, and it’s the Olympics! I’ve been watching it since my high school days, and I’m a sporty person too.”
How much did Andrea spend and what was her job description?
In her post, Andrea briefly broke down her expenditures, which included a one-way ticket to Paris that cost her approximately RM3,800. Other costs include,
- Airbnb accommodation (approximately RM6,500)
- Food (approximately RM1,200)
The expenditures totalled up to RM11,500.
Andrea saved a lot on transportation as she walked 30 minutes to her workplace from her place of stay. As for food, Andrea spent around EUR15 (approximately RM73) on dinner each day and had oatmeal with milk and protein bars for breakfast. Lunch was provided at her workplace.
As for her volunteer job, Andrea admitted that it can be boring at times but it was all about the experience.
Olympic jobs are divided into paid (working for 3 months or a year) and unpaid (volunteer) positions. Registration for Olympic volunteers is usually open months before the commencement.
“You have to be at least 18 years old, proficient in English or French and be able to work for more than 10 days.”
“The job of an Olympic volunteer is to guide the audience to their seats to watch the games. At the same time, I got to watch the games on the spot, too! It’s all about the experience and I finally got to tick off one of the items on my bucket list.”
Andrea also had the luxury of taking pictures with athletes and other crew members from around the world during her volunteer job.
“Thank you, Paris, thank you, Olympics, for giving me such a beautiful memory.”
Volunteer in LA Olympics 2028, anyone?
In a brief conversation with WORLD OF BUZZ, Andrea said that she felt lucky for the experience. When asked if she would return as a volunteer in future Olympic events, Andrea said no and highlighted that her experience in Paris has sufficed.
“Once in my life is enough, I have other plans too,” Andrea told WORLD OF BUZZ.
With the next Olympics set to take place in Los Angeles, USA in 2028, Andrea also shared some insights you need to consider if you’re interested in the volunteer job. Andrea hinted that the application for a volunteer position in the Los Angeles Olympics might be tougher.
“You need to have a US Visa, and the cost of living there is higher than Paris. I doubt RM10,000 will be enough, and the transportation there is not as convenient as in Paris.”
Andrea also reminded others that volunteers are usually required to stand for up to 6 hours, so physical health is important.
Andrea’s experience is truly a 1-in-a-million kind of opportunity! Are you up for a volunteer position in the Olympics?
Also read: “My next goal is to make Malaysia’s Olympics gold medal dream come true” Lee Zii Jia Tells M’sians
