Anthony Phillips

Year of Graduation: 2001

  • Course BA English & Linguistics
  • School School of Humanities
  • Nationality British
  • Career industry Education
  • Current job title International Business Manager

My experiences were rich, diverse, affirming, and defining long after my course ended. The most exciting, fun, and hopeful three years of my life at that age.

I loved how all three years of my degree were unique and diverse. I enjoyed researching for my dissertation in a local school, studying the language of the children. I was always fascinated by language acquisition and the enthusiasm of my lecturers, who are experts in their field. I spent a lot of time on the main campus, in the resources centre. I also enjoyed my time at the union, sometimes performing with a band. Final year for me was an amazing mix of study, friendships and music. I am STILL close friends with the friends I made throughout my time at Wolverhampton, even visiting one of them in Singapore recently. My closest friend lives a long way from me, but we have never stopped visiting each other, and now both have families. They were the most exciting, fun, and hopeful three years of my life to that point. I have too many good memories, mostly because of the warm friendship of so many people in my hall, and on campus. I couldn't walk anywhere without getting side-tracked bumping into friends. But my favourite memory must be the pride I felt when I received my degree.
I would never have been able to have my career as it is, without my degree. First of all, I was able to go into teacher training, and then I worked for 15 years in the education business using all the knowledge I had from teaching English. My earning power was increased significantly, and I still trace it back to university. I rely on communication skills in my industry, and studying language at Wolves contributed to my confidence as a keynote/public speaker
I introduce investors to independent schools in the UK and US with plans to open new schools overseas. I create partnerships for the schools to research the international market, manage teacher and student recruitment, and to open a successful school in Asia. I advise senior leadership teams at the top 50 schools in the UK on the local laws and customs, outlining the business opportunity, risks, and drivers. And I sell data and research tailored to the market they've shortlisted. I helped King's College Wimbledon to open in Bangkok, and Charterhouse School to open in South Korea after introducing the South Korean government to seven UK schools, and going through a selection process until one was chosen.
A major record deal with EMI, moved to LA and worked with Sam Smith and Adele.
Don't underestimate the power your studies may hold for you beyond university. The University of Wolverhampton provides the opportunity to succeed, but it's up to you to make it happen. Make the most of your time, and choose subjects that you enjoy. You'll achieve more if you're enjoying your work. If you're considering moving away from home for the first time, don't panic or rush to make friends as it will all come in time. You'll find people on your wavelength and they will be friends for life.