Carlotta’s dream role at Eurovision

Carlotta describes the unforgettable experience of being part of the Eurovision host team after gaining one of the hotly-contested volunteering roles, and shows just how to get the most out of all the opportunities on offer at University!

"As most of you will know, England, and specifically Liverpool, hosted the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest on behalf of Ukraine. As an Events Management student, Eurovision fan and music lover, taking part in the event was a big dream of mine, but never in a million years would I have expected to have the opportunity to actually go.

At the beginning of February, the Culture Liverpool Website opened applications: requirements included age (18+), language (English was mandatory, but speaking other languages was encouraged) and the right attitude. My Events Management lecturer advertised the position on our course channels and I managed to apply about 12 hours before applications were closed. After an extremely thorough interview I was accepted for the Eurovision Village Volunteer Role, and I realised how competitive the entire process had been, with 2,000 applicants and only 500 being selected.

I was assigned to the Eurovision Village, on the Pier Head, for the week leading to the Grand Final. My role consisted in welcoming people, showing them around, assisting them with directions and queries and ensuring everyone was having a good time. On the final day, Saturday 13th of May, my main task was scanning attendees’ tickets, something extremely important and difficult, especially with the sun beating down.

During my week in Liverpool I met dozens of extraordinary people and I made friends with other volunteers who worked tirelessly to ensure everyone was happy and safe. The atmosphere was always joyful and full of excitement, especially during the amazing performances I got to watch after my shifts. I got to see many Eurovision 2023 entries, such as Gustaph (Belgium), Victor Vernicos (Greece), Marco Mengoni (Italy), Käärijä (Finland) and TuralTuranX (Azerbaijan), as well as other stars like VengaBoys.

I had an amazing time and I am genuinely sorry it is over, but extremely grateful to have been given the opportunity to be part of it. I loved every single second and I hope to be able to take part in something this special again, but most of all, it made me realise how much I appreciate my course and what exactly my career goals are.

I believe that volunteering for such important event was beneficial for my Events and International Tourism Management course and career prospects, as I worked on my communication, customer service and organisation skills. I was also lucky enough to meet many extraordinary people and attend several concerts, what an experience it has been!"

If you'd like to find out more about our Events Management course join us at one of our upcoming Open Days.