While millions of Canadians watched the London 2012 Summer Olympics from the comfort of their home, third-year Durham College Sport Management student Meredith Walker ventured across the globe to volunteer with the Canadian Olympic Team.

Exchanging pleasantries with Prince Harry, celebrating each medal success with our Canadian athletes, and attending and watching several Olympic events are just some of the perks of Walker’s adventure, which have further fuelled her desire to pursue a  career in sport management. 

“This opportunity has allowed me to see what is involved in organizing a sport management event of this magnitude and all of the planning and preparation that goes into something of this size,” said Walker.

In June 2010 Walker was selected as a Garfield Weston Scholar, a prestigious award that recognizes outstanding college-bound Canadian students that demonstrate a strong commitment to their fields of study and make positive contributions to their communities.

“When I first received word that I had been selected and heard about the summer program experience, I immediately applied online to volunteer at the London 2012 Games,” said Walker. “I think that volunteering with the Olympic Games will help in my future career goals as I have gained a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the sporting world. I’ve also had the chance to meet and network with athletes, sports sponsors, and numerous Canadian and other Olympic committee members.”

Walker worked in hospitality among a team of volunteers responsible for ensuring family, friends, and special guests of the Canadian Olympic Team were taken care of and assisted with the organization and preparation for medal presentations. In addition she  bartended and worked in the Hudson’s Bay Company store. 

Following the Olympic Games, Walker remained in London for a week volunteering with a local YMCA at the Community Games, an event that encourages the community to get involved in Olympic activities and healthy lifestyles. 

“Meredith is one of the top achievers in our program and not just in the classroom,” said Matt Akler, professor with the School of Business, IT & Management’s Sport Management program. “She regularly seeks opportunities like this and these experiences often serve as a springboard to future career success. We’re looking forward to having Meredith return to our program for her final year and share her experiences with the students and faculty in our program. I’m certain it will serve as inspiration for others.”

As Walker enters her final year of study her eyes are set on the future. Since returning home she is in pursuit of a possible internship with the Canadian Olympic Committee and plans to draw on her first-hand experience as she completes her studies.