How an LCC exchange changed my life

Last summer, the Mobility Office at London College of Communication (LCC) offered 20 bursaries worth £750 to undergraduate students wanting to participate in a summer programme with one of our partner institutions.

These programmes vary in duration, but their goal is to allow students to spend some time abroad - students who might not have had the opportunity to participate in a mobility scheme before during their time as an undergraduate.

While abroad, students are able to develop global networks as they become forward-thinking graduates at the forefront of the creative industries.

The programmes have been developed with UAL’s place as a global university at the heart of London in mind, and the institutions LCC offers exchanges with include New York’s School of Visual Arts, Sydney’s University of Technology, the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts - and Hong Kong Polytechnic University.

Students have to apply and then are selected based on their application.

Junsheng Xu, a BA (Hons) Journalism student, was one of the successful applicants, and spent summer 2023 at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. This was his experience.

Where are you from?

I come from Suzhou, China. Suzhou is a historically and culturally rich city located in the Jiangsu Province of eastern China. It is renowned for its classical gardens, ancient canals, and traditional architecture.

What attracted you to LCC?

Being located in London, one of the world's creative and cultural hubs, LCC has the advantage of being close to numerous media and design agencies, publishing houses and other relevant industries. The College often collaborates with industry professionals, providing students with opportunities for internships, workshops, and real-world projects.

LCC has modern and well-equipped facilities, including studios, labs, and workshops, providing students with the tools and resources necessary for hands-on learning.

What course are you doing and why did you want to do it?

I am currently studying BA (Hons) Journalism. From high school, I found I had a passion for writing, storytelling, and effective communication. I also had a strong interest in staying informed about what's happening in the world.

Journalism seemed like the most suitable field for me. Journalism has the power to influence public opinion and bring attention to important social, political and cultural issues.

How did you get involved in the exchange?

I learned from the UAL website that there were opportunities for an exchange at overseas partner universities during the summer break. These universities all offer programmes of high academic quality, located in some of the world’s most exciting student locations.

In February of this year, I applied to go to Hong Kong for a summer exchange through the International Mobility Office. After the review and selection process, I was very happy to be nominated to go to Hong Kong Polytechnic University.

What were your highlights of your time in Hong Kong?

The course I studied in summer school was called "Global China", which was a topic I was very interested in.

I chose this course because I want to venture into a new academic field - social science - and it gave me exposure to fresh insight in this area. I also have gained more of an understanding of international relations and a detailed learning of China's development and foreign policy.

During a month of learning of the course, I developed a thorough understanding of the relationship between the individual and society. I looked at social phenomena and comparative approaches to the study of international relations.

Exposure to a new education and living environment broadened my perspective. This will provide more inspiration and ideas for my future studies, journalism and writing.

I got along well with students from different places and academic backgrounds. We discussed academic issues with each other, and established good connections with teachers there.

My classmates at summer school were interested in my educational background. I shared my experience of studying journalism and my life in the UK through class and group discussions with students and our professor.

I was proud to introduce both my College and my course as an UAL exchange student.

What did you learn there that you feel you would not have learned anywhere else?

My host university, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, offered a variety of enriching activities. They arranged a weekly itinerary to visit famous attractions in Hong Kong.

The university also conducted different interesting workshops to let students participate in producing local cuisine and handicrafts. I learned so much about customs and culture in Hong Kong.

During the journey, I made many new friends and formed deep friendships. We also invited each other to visit our respective hometowns in the future.

How did LCC support you when you were in Hong Kong?

LCC supported me a lot for my exchange.

LCC Mobility Office took great care of me. They followed up on my overseas exchange progress in a timely manner from my arrival in Hong Kong to the end of summer school, to ensure my safety and learning status there.

Would you recommend the scheme to other students?

I would strongly recommend the scheme to other students.

The summer programme provided students with opportunities for personal growth and development, including leadership, teamwork and problem-solving skills.

To me, the quality of this summer programme was very high. It was an unforgettable experience in my life.

Thank you to LCC for providing me with this valuable opportunity to exchange overseas.

What are your plans after graduating?

I’m considering continuing my education with a Master's degree, possibly in journalism.

I will also explore work opportunities for international news organisations, NGOs, and covering global issues as a freelance journalist to gain more practical experience.

If you’re an LCC student, you can find out more about opportunities to participate in an exchange programme by chatting to your Course Leader, checking your course Moodle page or contacting mobility@lcc.arts.ac.uk.

If you’re a student at one of LCC’s partner universities, you can find out more about opportunities to study at the College through your institution’s own International or Mobility Office, or by contacting mobility@lcc.arts.ac.uk.

Related links:

• Learn more about LCC’s staff and student exchanges.
• Learn more about studying BA (Hons) Journalism at LCC.
• Find out more about our Media School.