Every year, thousands of students move to London from Cumbria to Canada to China, it’s often a life-altering decision that brings new opportunities and great experiences. We talk to BA (Hons) Fashion Buying and Merchandising alumna Sisi Ren about what motivated her to trade in Ontario, Canada for the UK.
Sisi studied with Law and Midwifery at Wilfrid Laurier University and Ryerson University back in Canada before making the decision to dedicate her life to a career in the fashion industry. She moved to London three years ago with the help of our LCF International team and hasn’t looked back since, establishing herself in the capital as a Buying Assistant at John Lewis. Moving to one of the world’s leading fashion capitals was something Sisi knew she had to do if she was going to find her feet in the industry. She discusses her top tips, reasons for moving abroad and life after graduation below.
Canada to London with Fashion Buying and Merchandising alumna Sisi Ren.
Hey, can you tell us a little bit about yourself and why you wanted to study at LCF?
Sisi: My name is Sisi and I’m originally from Canada, I have been living in London for almost 3 years now and it has definitely been a crazy journey. I studied Buying and Merchandising at LCF and I have to say it was quite a challenge! One of the main reasons why I wanted to study at LCF was because it is one of the best fashion universities in the world. I knew if I had the chance to study at LCF I would be constantly challenged not just academically but emotionally, just the idea of this really pushed me to grasp the opportunity.
What makes London different or special to you?
Sisi: London is extremely special to me because it’s a city that has taught me so much about the fashion industry and also about myself. It’s a city that is also very demanding and I knew if I couldn’t adapt fast enough I would have failed but on the bright side it has opened up so many amazing opportunities for me, to new job offerings, new friends, and a new outlook to life.
What opportunities came your way after making the move across the pond?
Sisi: A lot of great job opportunities came my way after the move and I am just thankful that I was offered an opportunity to study overseas.
We talk to BA (Hons) Fashion Buying and Merchandising alumna Sisi Ren about what motivated her to trade in Ontario, Canada for the UK.
What were your three favourite things about London?
Sisi: Top three favourite things about London are:
1) Shopping, shopping, and more shopping.
2) It’s a city that is extremely diverse.
3) Sunday roast at the local pub.
Best way to spend a weekend in the UK?
Sisi: During the day I would definitely recommend going to all the major museums (Tate Modern, British Museum, Saatchi Gallery). During the night you have to head over to Shoreditch for a good time!
How does London’s fashion industry compare to other cities?
Sisi: London’s fashion industry is massively influential, it is recognised as the top 4 big international fashion cities. It is so unique when compared to other cities because it’s so multi-cultured and everyone
What have you been up to since graduation?
Sisi: Since graduation, I have been working full-time in the fashion industry and travelling as much as I can within Europe. I’m currently in the buying fields and absolutely loving every bit of it.
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