Olympics: The Student and Staff View
- The day I tried paralympic sports
- My life as a UCL elite athlete, part 1
- Rowing for Gold
- Who stole my milk?
- My life as a UCL elite athlete, part 2
- My life as a UCL elite athlete, part 3
- UCL's student torchbearers
- Professor Ian Needleman on the jaws of victory
- Daniella Afeltra on having a lakeside view at Eton Dorney
- Gill Gregory on the merits of 'high-fiving'
- Mary Wykes on brightening up the commute
- Valerie Hazan on leading a security team
- Mike Sainsbury on the transport logistics behind London 2012
Mary Wykes on brightening up the commute
30 August 2012
I work in the Division of Psychology & Language Sciences at UCL. I volunteered during the Olympics as a mobility team member based at the main stadium. I assisted less able spectators from the buggy stops to their seats, which was often quite a distance.
I enjoyed my time there immensely. It was interesting to meet such a wide variety of people, both clients and fellow team members – and very satisfying.
As a lifelong London commuter I am used to people generally keeping to themselves. The reaction to the volunteer uniform was something I have not experienced before. People would chat to me, ask questions and offer their (mostly positive) opinions, which is a rare thing indeed for the tube.
The opportunity to see some of the athletics live and the closing ceremony was very exciting. Overall I would have to say it was one of the most positive experiences that I have had in my life in London. I am very glad that I gave up two weeks of my annual leave to do it!
Mary Wykes, far left, with fellow volunteers
