Mathilde Gaumet’s Olympic Experience: A Dream Realized in Paris

09/17/2024

Mathilde Gaumet, a William Penn University student from France, recently had the incredible opportunity to volunteer at the 2024 Olympics in Paris. Her journey began more than seven years ago when Paris was bidding to host the Games. As an avid wrestler, Mathilde and her club organized various activities to promote the Olympics and support France’s bid. Initially, her dream was to participate as an athlete, but after facing multiple injuries, she had to step away from wrestling. Two years ago, a volunteer opportunity arose through her wrestling federation. Though she applied without high expectations due to the competitive nature of the selection process, a year later, she was thrilled to be selected as a volunteer.

During the Games, Mathilde took on multiple roles. In the first week, she worked in the Olympic Village, managing the training room to ensure everything ran smoothly for the athletes. As the wrestling competitions began, she transitioned to roles in the competition area, where she was responsible for cleaning the mats during matches and escorting athletes to the call room. One of the most exciting parts of the role was being able to watch the matches from the front row.

Among her most memorable experiences was the opportunity to meet and interact with world-class wrestlers, including some of her personal heroes. Meeting Mijan Lopez, a five-time Olympic gold medalist, and Sarah Hildebrandt, known for her infectious energy, were highlights of the experience. Mathilde also enjoyed connecting with other volunteers, including some from Iowa, creating a sense of global camaraderie.

The experience came with its challenges, including a tense moment with an Iranian coach during a match. However, Mathilde handled the situation with professionalism, gaining valuable lessons in communication and management under pressure.

Reflecting on the experience, Mathilde described it as a dream come true. While her career goals don’t involve working in sports, the Olympics left a lasting impact. Her education at William Penn University, particularly her improved English skills and courses in management and communication, played a key role in preparing her for the demands of the role. The selection process was rigorous, requiring a cover letter, a detailed quiz, and several rounds of interviews. Ultimately, the opportunity to volunteer at the world’s biggest sporting event was a testament to Mathilde’s perseverance and passion for the Olympic spirit.