Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what you studied before you came to LCF?
My background is in fine art. I studied an art and design course for my A- Levels which included fine art, photography, graphic design and 3D design.

What course are you studying and why did you choose that course?
I am in my third year (top up) studying a BA honours in Specialist Make Up Design for Fashion and Editorial Image (now FdA Hair and Make Up for Fashion). I chose this course because I wanted to continue to use my creativity in more of an editorial way. I wanted to create my own editorial images where I could develop and research a significant meaning to create an outcome with a message. The BA top up option has given me the opportunity to expand my knowledge and understanding of the fashion industry where I am able to look outside the box to create a meaningful editorial.

Why LCF?
I chose LCF because it is highly recognised in the fashion industry. I also wanted to be around teachers and students that have a lot of knowledge about fashion and make up artistry. In addition, LCF has many links to the fashion industry and being around London where I can witness the everyday changes in the fashion cycle along the high street is something that really attracted me.

How did you get involved with London High Street Fashion week?
My teacher, Fiona Minors asked me to be involved with this event.

How much practical work do you do on the course?
The first two years of the course we had two hair and make up lessons a week, but as well as that there are open access rooms to practice in as well.

Do you get to do professional make up shoots?
Each term we have a brief and throughout the term we put together tests and research as well as organising a photo shoot, the model, location etc. We have been fortunate to have a photographer hired for us once a term, but if we have to do any other photo shoots, we use the photography students at LCF.

How do you research for different projects?
There is an excellent library in the campus as well as a large selection of magazines to influence us. I use the internet as well where I look at different themes and the work of other designers. I also take influence from objects and areas around me as research.

What make up do you use on the course? Were you taught different application methods?
We start with a kit from MAC where we get a basic range of products, but in our practical lessons we are given the opportunity to try other products from MAC. Each teacher has their own method, so seeing a number of different make up artists work has given me a wide range of different methods.

Have you been on any work placements or get involved in any industry projects as part of your degree?
Through my tutor at LCF I have had the chance to work in a number of LCF student fashion shows. I have also worked as a make up artist at Graduate Fashion Week and the Clothes Show London, where I assisted reputable make up artists working on professional models. These experiences, as well as many more, have been fantastic and have given me a great insight into the atmosphere and environment in the fashion industry.

How much written and theory work did you have to do on your course?
We have cultural studies lessons which develop into an essay twice a year, as well as writing evaluations and explanations about our project work. All our make up work has to be backed up by evidence and theory which influences our final shoots in terms of idea, meaning, mood and colour.

Have you got any tips for students who want to follow in your footsteps?
Before you apply for the course, ensure you have a range art and design work which you can talk about, as well as some knowledge about fashion and the latest trends. Try and get as much work experience before and during the course to be able to network and build up a portfolio.