Liz Elkington
Humanities graduate Liz Elkington (nee Lichi) has steadily worked her way up the media ladder to become a successful scriptwriter, producer and director for British Sky Broadcasting.
She came to UWE back in 1992 to study Humanities."I always wanted to be creative, and the course offered a fantastic mix of subjects and ways to express myself," says Liz. "It also prepared me for the diversity of working in the media. That and working to ridiculous deadlines. As a student, you tend to bring that on yourself, but now it's just part of the job!"
So long, Bristol...
For a year or so after graduation, Liz stayed in Bristol, writing for local publications and taking additional media courses. But she soon realised London held the key to her future success, and moved there in 1997. "Bristol's grown since then as a media centre, but at the time, London was the place," says Liz.
Barely touching the rungs on the ladder
For the next ten years, Liz built up her broadcasting experience, always with an eye on fresh opportunities. "I've worked at the BBC, Channel 4, Five, GMTV, and Sky - on programmes ranging from Dr Who and Teletubbies to documentary series' and live event broadcasting," she says. "Each was a stepping-stone, but great fun, too."
The career highlight
One of Liz's career-defining moments was a recent exclusive interview with Sir Michael Caine. "I'd tried so hard to convince his agent, but pretty much resigned myself to making a programme about him, but without him. But then I got the call, and was absolutely thrilled. Just goes to show what persistence can do!"
But what about the glitz and glamour?
"People are people, no matter how famous they are, so you can't really be star-struck if you want to succeed in TV," says Liz. "There's very little glamour behind the scenes, but it's the end result that makes this my dream job. It's long hours and short deadlines, but I wouldn't have it any other way."
Page last updated 1 November 2011