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Meet your new LCF Arts SU Officer: Jianing Lu

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  • Written byS Cheevers
  • Published date 29 July 2025
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Jianing Lu profile photo

Hi! I’m Jianing, and I’m incredibly excited to be your next LCF Officer. I’m originally from Ningbo, China, and came to London with the dream of combining design, psychology, and culture. I’ve been part of the LCF community for the past six years, first as an undergraduate student in BA (Hons) Fashion Sportswear, then during my placement year, and now as a postgraduate student studying MSc Applied Psychology in Fashion. Through these years, I’ve experienced LCF from multiple angles: as a creative, as a student representative, and as someone passionate about community-building.

Jianing, we are so excited to have you as our next LCF Officer. Tell us a bit about yourself?

Over the years, I’ve been deeply involved in student voice work through serving as a Course Rep for 3 years, where I worked closely with staff to improve the academic experience. This has given me a strong awareness of what students need, from wider access to resources to stronger support in navigating creative careers. I'm also passionate about sustainability and reducing material waste, something I’ve experienced firsthand as a designer. These values now guide my priorities as LCF Officer.

What made you stand in the Arts SU elections?

Honestly, it came from a deep desire to give back to a place that has shaped me in so many ways. Having studied across both design and psychology courses at LCF, I’ve gained a broader perspective on the student experience, from the intense demands of creative production to the emotional and cultural challenges students face, especially those who are international.

I’ve seen how students across disciplines - designers, writers, curators, marketeers - often encounter different but equally real struggles, including unclear assessment standards, isolation, burnout, and limited access to resources. I wanted to represent those voices, to bridge the gaps between courses, build stronger connections, and push for meaningful change that helps students feel truly supported both academically and personally.

What are your goals and priorities for this academic year?

This year, I’ll focus on 3 core priorities:

1. Improving academic resources and educational quality

I’ll work to standardise assessment criteria and improve access to research materials, collaborating with both college and university teams. The goal is to help students feel more confident in their learning and expand their academic horizons beyond the curriculum.

2. Promoting sustainability through better resource reuse

I’m setting up a Material Swap and Reuse Platform to reduce fabric and material waste, making it easier for students to donate, share, and repurpose creative resources. This isn’t just about cutting waste, it’s about embedding sustainability into the way we make and learn.

3. Enhancing graduate outcomes and industry connections

I plan to curate a multi-disciplinary, open-call exhibition that showcases student work across courses, helping students build visibility and connect with industry. I’m also working to bring in more international companies, especially Chinese employers, to UAL career fairs, opening opportunities for students from all backgrounds.

How can students and staff get in touch with you, or get involved with your projects?

I’d love to hear from anyone—whether you have a concern, an idea, or just want to get involved! The best way to reach me is via email at j.lu@su.arts.ac.uk.

I’ll also be hosting regular office hours, attending course forums, and working closely with staff and student groups across LCF. Throughout the year, I’ll be running a range of projects, from material reuse initiatives to career development events, and I’m always open to collaboration.

No matter your course or background, if you care about improving the student experience at LCF, I’d be so happy to connect with you.