Philip Saunders

BA (Hons) Video, 2006

Philip Saunders, more commonly known as WCR FM's Philip Solomon, had already established for himself a successful broadcasting and presenting career when he decided to go back to university. Choosing a BA (Hons) in Video, he took his experiences from in front of the camera behind it to get the full picture.

Q. Why did you choose to study a BA (Hons) Video at the University of Wolverhampton?

“When I decided to venture into higher education I had already spent many years in front of the camera as a broadcaster and presenter. Now I wanted to learn more about 'behind the camera' work, hoping to specialise in directing or as an executive producer.

“Being local to Wolverhampton, I already knew of the University and I was encouraged by its good reputation. As a mature student I was a little nervous, but when I met the course lecturers during an informal interview I was made to feel very welcome and came away much more reassured.”

Q. What are your memories of studying at the University?

“The lecturers and support staff were always extremely helpful, approachable and very informative. The campus was a pleasant place to study with very up-to-date equipment which was most important on my course. I also had the opportunity to work on several projects linked to placements which gave me good practical experience alongside my academic studies.”

Q. Where has your career taken you since graduating?

“Today I am a self-employed radio broadcaster and for the last four years I have hosted my own radio show - Philip Solomon's Music and Memories - which goes out every Monday night on Wolverhampton City Radio, 101.8 FM. I am also a published author of 16 books and write feature columns in several leading newspapers and magazines.”

Q. What does a typical day look like for you?

“My first early morning tasks are to liaise with my producer regarding the production and guests on my radio show and then I move on to answering letters and responding to emails from my newspaper and magazine columns. Many evenings see me giving lectures and talks at various venues, such as theatres, halls, universities and colleges.”

Q. How do you think your degree prepared you for your career?

“I think that, particularly in my video and broadcasting roles, my degree has been superb. While I had many years of experience in front of the camera, this is now aligned to very good training for behind the camera/microphone work. My skills are much more rounded and with that knowledge I have gained greater professional assurance in myself.”

Q. What do you think is the most important skill to work in the media?

“You need confidence and tenacity, but you also need an altruistic attitude towards helping others in order to bring about team results.”

Q. What advice would you give a potential student of the University?

“You can go to the University of Wolverhampton and confidently be assured of excellent training in whatever course you study. If you are a mature student, as I was, you will quickly be made to feel at home and become part of university life. Go for it!”