Matt Cooke – Q&A

Name
Matt Cooke

Age?
28

Where are you from?
Originally Kingston-upon-Thames, but I grew up in Guildford, Surrey

How did you get started in Broadcasting?
During University, I wrote for student newspapers and websites, and contributed to The Guardian Newspaper. From there, I enrolled at the London College of Printing studying a Postgraduate Diploma in Broadcast Journalism. I worked at local commercial radio stations before getting my first job at the BBC.

When was that?
I’ve worked at the BBC since 2005.

Why News Broadcasting?
I’ve always been interested in the news and current affairs, and I especially like watching foreign news output too.

Where else would have viewers seen or heard you before?
I’ve reported and presented at BBC London News, and BBC Midlands Today in Birmingham. I’ve presented 60seconds on BBC Three since 2008, the ‘E24’ entertainment bulletins and ‘Your News’ on the BBC News Channel.

What is your Best on-air moment?
Live reporting during English Defence League riots in Birmingham and Stoke-on-Trent. And on the lighter side of things, meeting Zac Effron & the Brand New Heavies!!

What is your Worst on-air moment?
I once mispronounced Pompey – Portsmouth FC’s nickname – as Pompeii. I was shocked to hear Mount Vesuvius isn’t in Hampshire.

What would you like to do before your career ends?
I’d like to work in the States for a while, particularly New York as I have lot’s of family there.

What advice would you give to anyone that would like to get into the broadcasting world?
Be prepared to work for free, or little payment at the beginning of your career – but also don’t let people take advantage. There are still lot’s of opportunities out there, and getting your face out and around different newsrooms is a good way to get yourself noticed. If you’re based in London, remember there are newsrooms and news patches outside the M25 – so don’t be worried about leaving for a while!

Big thanks to Matt for taken part in this Q and A. Submitted 26th November 2010.

Posted by on Friday 26 November 2010