Volunteers, workers and athletes: UEL's students have been involved in a wide range of roles during both the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Read on to find out more about their experiences.
Gemma Gibbons, silver Judo Olympic medallist
UEL alumni, Gemma Gibbons, won silver in the 70kg Judo category during the 2012 Olympic Games. Gemma, who graduated in Exercise Science and Health in 2011, has represented Team GB at senior world and European championships. Well done Gemma!
Freyja Gillard, Opening Ceremony volunteer and photographic studio assistant
Media and Creative Industries student, Freyja Gillard, was lucky enough to get two roles in the Olympic Games - first as a roller skating nurse during the Opening Ceremony, and then as a photographic studio assistant. She said:
"I was a volunteer performer in the Opening Ceremony, playing a roller skating nurse in the NHS section... Being part of the Opening Ceremony was probally one of the best things I have ever done. I got to spend a lot of time in the stadium and Olympic Park before anyone else was allowed to and I had the chance to sneakily watch rehearsals of other sections!
"There were only 47 skaters out of a cast of 10,000. We had to learn to lindy hop on skates, but due to carpet being unexpectedly laid down, we had to learn a whole new (non-lindy hop) choreography in the final two weeks.
"It was an absolutely amazing experience! I was interviewed by Sky News and got to meet Danny Boyle, who I now truly admire. I also got to work with a great group of people and be part of something I truly felt was breathtaking.
"My next role was in the Olympic Village, providing photographic studio customer services support to spectators and athletes. I worked on the relay photos... people who held the torch as part of the relay were able to choose the images they liked and have them printed. I really liked seeing the special moments of individuals who carried the torch. Some of the photos are really touching... and it's pretty cool walking around the Athletes' Village amongst the various teams!"
Ryan Evans, Opening Ceremony 'mosh pit'
Ryan Evans was lucky enough to be one of the 25 students selected to attend the Opening Ceremony in the 'mosh pit'. He tells us how he's been inspired by the experience.
"Thank you to UEL and the Employability and Enterprise team for the opportunity to experience the 2012 Olympics first-hand as a proud student. It was a really great experience and truly breathtaking!
"I've had lots of opportunities in the past which I've never taken up. I used to do competitive swimming when I was younger and my goal was to be an Olympic swimmer. However, this conflicted with my aim to become a doctor, so I put it on the backburner while pursuing my academic study.
"Seeing the Olympics first-hand has shown me that I should take every opportunity. It's made me want to become much healthier and maybe get back into swimming. Who knows, maybe I could fulfil a dream of competing again with the Olympics in mind!"
Abduley Santo, souvenir photo sales assistant
International Business student, Abduley Santo, worked as a souvenir photo assistant during the Games. He said:
"I learned about this role through the UEL Employability and Enterprise team. My position has involved providing customer support and promotion for those who would like to purchase their souvenir photos taken with the Olympic torch at the park.
"It has been a truly exciting and demanding experience. In performing this role, I am able to develop my communication and negotiation skills as well as develop my work experience. It means that I am part of a once in a lifetime event, which makes it extra special!"
Jana Shodiya, Opening Ceremony rehearsal spectator and volunteer performer at the Paralympic Opening Ceremony
Pharmacology alumni student, Jana Shodiya, took on two roles during the Games. She explains:
"[For my first role] I was invited to be part of the final technical rehearsals onsite Opening Ceremony audience, who had to experience and critique the delivery of the performance. I had so much fun!
"I am also a volunteer performer at the Paralympic Opening Ceremony. I am still not allowed to discuss the details as the surprise has to be saved until Wednesday 29 August - show day! I can't wait! It has been so much fun, learning a lot of choreographed dance moves, facial expressions and hands with body coordination in rhythm with the music. Fun!"
Nichola Lowry, volunteer professional photographer
Photography student, Nichola Lowry, was a volunteer professional photographer at Gallions Reach Primary School. She tells us:
"I learnt about this great volunteering opportunity through the UEL Employability and Enterprise scheme. Gallions Reach Primary School were looking for a volunteer to photograph an arts festival and Olympic Games-related activities that were being run to celebrate the Games coming to Newham.
"I volunteered because it was a brilliant opportunity for me to gain experience, see how UEL's neighbouring schools are celebrating the Games and to put into practice some of the techniques I learnt this year."
Sports Journalism students, reporting for Team USA
Ten Sports Journalism students reported for Team USA throughout the Games. The students were each assigned specific sports to report on for USA Daily, Team USA's daily newsletter.
UEL student, Zsanett Furka, explains: "My Games-time role is reporting for Team USA. My focal points are in the areas of swimming, diving and water polo. This is an amazing opportunity that I feel can enrich me for my future career prospects as well as my passion for the Olympics."
The other students working for Team USA are: David Charnely, Chris Deacon, Dominique Hume, Ola Kasali, Joe Nerssessian, Stuart Ballard, James Kemble, Kris Kannon and Sunniva Naess.
