After years of planning, hard work and dedication the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games is over. Today was a weird day in Beijing. People were walking around much quieter with their heads down. It seems as though the whole city is in a bit of a shock. What do we do now that it's over? Especially for me and the rest of us here at IC we wonder what is the city going to do now that the games are over? Yeah we all understand that life will go on. The Games weren't the only thing going on in Beijing. It just seems weird to me for there to be a Beijing without the Olympics. 

In a way I am sad to think about leaving the city in two days. It has been such a journey and adventure for me here. I have learned so much about my own strengths and weaknesses as well and as the strengths and weaknesses of my friends and classmates. I wrote in an article earlier this trip that I came here one person and I am leaving another. I have been able to meet people from around the world - all kinds of people. The Olympics is the most global event I have ever experienced and the memories and relationships I made here will stay with me forever. I have never been more proud of myself as when I reached the top of the Great Wall of China. I have never rejoiced as much as when the American Sabre women swept the podium. And I have never felt such pangs of sadness as when China's favourite athlete injured himself before his race even began. This has been an incredible experience for me. At times I have been frustrated and upset with the differences in cultures. Others I have been horribly homesick and mad that I had to be here for two whole months. But now with just two days left to go I have nothing but good memories and friendships to hold on to. 

Knowing that I am only 21 years-old and I have already worked at one of the most influential and important events in the world is astonishing. This trip is only the jumping off point for myself and everyone else here. I know that I will always look back on this trip with a smile on my face. I also know that no matter what I do with my life, career wise and personally I will use lessons I learned while here in Beijing. I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to come and experience the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games and I can only thank those who helped me get here.