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Li Na: I am proud to be an Olympic Volunteer

Li Na poses for a picture with an foreign athlete.

My name is Li Na. I am a graduate student from the English Department at the Beijing Language and Culture University. I am a volunteer for the Beijing 2008 Olympics, and my duty is to act as a liaison for national teams from foreign countries. I had enjoyed watching the Olympics on TV ever since I was a child, but I never dreamed I would be have such close contact with the Olympics.

I am extremely honored to be able to contribute to the Olympics as a volunteer. As a graduate student, I am four or five years older than many of the other volunteers, most of whom are undergraduate students; some people don't understand why I am still so enthusiastic about being an Olympic volunteer. But I don't think age is an issue when it comes to doing one's part for the Olympics. I have the same dedication to the Olympics as everyone else.

In August 2007 I was a liaison for the Iranian wrestling team at the Good Luck Beijing World Youth Wrestling Championship, which was held at the Chinese Agricultural University. I treated the Iranian athletes as close friends who live far away and did my best to help them in whatever difficulties they encountered. I wanted them to feel the warmth and sincerity of the Chinese people. I believe passion, sincerity and smiles are not confined by national boundaries. For me efforts, I earned the sincere gratitude of the Iranian athletes.

Preparing for the Games

Times flies; the Beijing 2008 Olympics is just round the corner. I have not forgotten my responsibility as a volunteer and have been working hard to prepare in all areas. I've attended many training sessions through my University and through BOCOG, strengthening my resolve and knowledge with each session. I have starting running one hour each day so that I'll be in good physical shape for the Games.

I have been paying close attention to everything Olympic-related; every time I see or hear news or an advertisement about the Olympics I get excited. I feel like I am a part of the Olympics – that my heart is one with the Olympic spirit. I believe that the Beijing 2008 Olympics will serve as an opportunity for the world to understand China and its people and culture -- to allow the whole world to see the fullness of our great nation.