Hilary Saunders
Hilary Saunders is from Virginia Beach, Virginia and is studying for a Masters degree in Popular Music Studies.
Can you tell us a bit about your background?
I'm originally from Virginia Beach, Virginia in the United States. It's about 3.5 hours south of the capital, Washington D.C. I studied print journalism, American studies (popular culture) and music at the University of Miami in the United States and my goal is to combine these passions for writing and music in 'the real world'.
How long have you been living and studying in Liverpool?
I've only been in Liverpool for a couple of months, so I'm still settling in!
Why did you choose to study in the UK, and in particular at the University of Liverpool?
The University of Liverpool's postgraduate programme in Popular Music Studies is not only the first of its kind in the UK, but also one of the first in the world.
As soon as I discovered its existence, I knew I should apply. What could be better than studying rock and roll in the birthplace of The Beatles?
What do you think of the University?
The campus is lovely, the lecturers and professors are some of the best in the field, and every time I walk through the middle of campus, I'm always stunned by the magnificence and prominence of the Victoria Gallery & Museum.
I love the way the University melds old and new architecture and how it integrates its campus-like feeling into the city itself.
What do you think of the city of Liverpool?
I really enjoy living in Liverpool! Since receiving the 2008 European Capital of Culture award, Liverpool has really emerged as the new place in England for creative people. The art scene is thriving through FACT, the Bluecoat, the TATE, and the Liverpool Biennial, which is happening now.
The shopping in Liverpool ONE has just about everything. And of course, with plenty of pubs, clubs, the Echo arena, independent music magazines and record stores, and tons of talented local musicians, Liverpool definitely has a distinctive and thriving music scene.
How different do you find Liverpool compared with home?
Liverpool's really different from where I grew up in Virginia and where I went to university in Miami. I love being able to walk almost everywhere in Liverpool and I really appreciate the history all around me. It's certainly colder here than when I lived in the States though; that might be the hardest thing to get used to!
Have you been involved in any additional activities during your time at Liverpool?
For the past month, I worked as a student marketing representative for Island Records, promoting their band The Drums before their gig at the O2 Academy - an opportunity I found through the School of Music. Even though it's not associated with the University, I'm also starting to contribute to Gigwise, a UK website that publishes music news, reviews, photos and videos.
What are your plans for the future and would you like to continue to be involved with the University?
With the changing media and music industries, I'm trying to keep an open mind for future plans. Wherever I end up, I'll definitely keep in touch with the University, lecturers, contacts, and friends I've made here.
What advice would you give to a US student who is thinking about coming to Liverpool?
Ask questions. Be yourself. Go with the flow. Just do it. And oh yeah, buy rain boots (they're called 'wellies' here).