Ziqing Lin

Tell us a bit about yourself?

I was born in China and moved to the UK during secondary school, so I feel like I have a blend of both cultures, which gives me a unique perspective. I studied psychology and business during my A-levels which sparked my interest in consumer behaviour. I've always had a desire to pursue something which aligned more to my broader interests. This led me to explore the field of fashion marketing, where I felt I could merge my passions.

What made you want to apply to your course and to Leeds?

The Fashion Marketing course caught my eye as it perfectly encapsulated my aspirations and interests, thus igniting a fervent desire to pursue it further at the university level, despite the fact that my A-Levels have nothing to do with fashion. 

The University of Leeds reputation for academia, coupled with its robust support systems; including the quality of teaching and the flexibility of its learning option that allowed me to choose a module from any other course outside of my major, spoke volumes about the University's commitment to fostering interdisciplinary learning. This flexibility not only piqued my interest but highlighted the University's commitment to developing well-rounded individuals who can cope with the complex challenges of academia.

In hindsight, I have absolutely no regrets about choosing Leeds. The rich experiences and opportunities provided to me so far have exceeded my expectations, validated my choices, and reinforced my belief that I am exactly where I am supposed to be.

What is it that makes you passionate about your area of study?

I had a strong enthusiasm for fashion ever since I was a child. I have been fascinated by the field of fashion because of its creativity and capacity for self-expression. However, as I grew older, I realised that my talents did not lie in drawing or tailoring, which initially dampened my enthusiasm for pursuing a career in the fashion industry. Moreover, my passion in business and marketing definitely grew during my A-Levels. 

Surprisingly, I discovered a unique way to use my passion for fashion and coexist with business, “Fashion marketing”.

I was really excited about fashion marketing as it offers me the chance to combine the creativity of fashion with business analytical thinking. It includes understanding market trends, interpreting consumer behaviour, and effectively conveying a brand's image and message through aesthetic adverting design. I have always been attracted to the dynamic and ever changing aspect of the fashion field, whether it's creating a branding strategy, planning a fashion show, or creating a social media campaign.

What aspects of the course do you enjoy the most?

There are a few things about the Fashion Marketing course that I find really useful and enjoyable. First of all, I appreciate the course's strong emphasis on practical learning. Many modules and projects are structured around real-world scenarios and various brands and markets. This approach has allowed me to seamlessly apply theoretical concepts learned in class to actual industry settings. Engaging in industry-based marketing projects has not only strengthened my confidence in my abilities but has also provided valuable insights into the actual workings of the fashion industry.

I am continually impressed by the course's emphasis on encouraging creativity. The opportunities to enhance my research and design skills within the fashion sector have been abundant. From crafting compelling advertising campaigns to strategically positioning brands in the different market, the course has provided a platform for develop my creative and research abilities. Moreover, the fashion industry's dynamic nature presents ongoing challenges for me to adjust to swift shifts in consumer behaviours and market trends, which enhances my learining experience even more.

Overall, the practicality and creativity embedded within the Fashion Marketing course have not only equipped me with valuable skills for my future career but also have enhanced my understanding of the fashion industry's complexity.

Are you involved in any activities outside of your studies?

I actively participate in a variety of extracurricular activities that extend my perspective and give me real-world experience in addition to my academic endeavours. One notable experience was my participation in the Leeds RAG Fashion Show, where I served as a dresser. This opportunity proved immensely valuable as I gained personal knowledge of the complex operations of fashion events. Delving into the behind the scenes of this enormous fashion shows was absolutely fascinating and intriguing. 

Through my participation in this Fashion Show, I not only gained invaluable knowledge about the meticulous planning but also the execution required to orchestrate successful events in the fashion industry. From coordinating outfits check to ensuring smooth performance on the runway, which also helped me in developed the understanding of the logistical challenges in such endeavours. 

What do you plan to do when you’ve finished your course, and how do you think the skills and knowledge you’ve developed so far at Leeds will help with these plans? 

My passion of fashion has grown throughout my time at Leeds, leading to a wide range of possible career possibilities. I can see myself entering the exciting field of the fashion after completing my studies, especially in London. I am hopeful to work at a fashion brand doing PR, marketing, promotions, visual merchandising, or other associated roles. 

I’ve obtained invaluable skills and knowledge during my time at the University of Leeds that I believe will serve as strong foundations for my future career in the fashion industry. From honing my critical thinking and analytical abilities to developing my creativity and communication skills, I feel confident that I am prepared to embark on my career journey in the fashion industry. 

Despite the uncertainty that lies ahead, I am determined to navigate through the challenges and seize every opportunity that comes my way. Even though it could occasionally seem overwhelming, but at same time that I am excited and hopeful about the next phase of my life. I'm prepared to take on this exciting path and make my career in the fashion industry.

What advice would you give to incoming students who are about to start their own university journey?

As you embark on your university journey, I will advise that enjoy every moment and make the most of this transformative experience. University life has the potential to be one of the most memorable chapters of your life, it is not only about the academic challenges. It is also filled with opportunities for personal growth and meaningful connections. So, I would advise you to engage in as many societies as you can; don't be reluctant to meet people and form connections.  

Furthermore, don't limit yourself to your specific field of study. While your academic pursuits are undoubtedly important, don't be afraid to take use of all the facilities and possibilities the campus has to offer. Take advantage of workshops, lectures, and events across different schools – you never know where your interests may lead you. Even if you're not majoring in graphic design or photography, for example, don't overlook the wealth of resources available in these areas, from state-of-the-art equipment to free workshops that can enhance your skills and broaden your horizons.

In conclusion, embrace the opportunities that university life has to offer, from making new friends and exploring diverse interests to honing your skills and pursuing your passions or career. With an open mind and a willingness to embrace the unknown, your university journey has the potential to be an unforgettable experience. So, seize the moment, and make the most of every opportunity that comes your way. And just enjoy it!