Hihi! I’m Ivy Lu, a student writer, researcher, and debater from Southern California. I am also the keeper of this little house. I built this space as a home for the stories and ideas that have followed me over the years. As both a writer of creative and academic works, I’m fascinated by the intersection between storytelling and the human experience. Whether I’m writing literary fiction, researching social issues, or crafting a speech, I find myself always typing away...

 

My work has been recognized by organizations including the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, where I received a Gold Key followed by a Silver National medal. I have been featured through the 100 Voices from Los Angeles youth initiative and had my speech published by Mark Rafter on NYLA and on Google News. In 2024-2026, I was also honored to be shortlisted twice for the John Locke Global Essay Prize, and was given a bronze medal from the Harvard International Review, recognizing my work in political philosophy and critical analysis.

 

Outside of writing, I’m a competitive debater, singer, scrapbook enthusiast, artist, and an avid cat lover. I firmly believe that stories should be experienced rather than simply read, which should invite us to step into someone else’s room for a while. 

 

While this house began as my own portfolio, I hope it won’t stay that way forever. Every room was built with the intention of eventually welcoming new artists, writers, and thinkers, like yourself. So, welcome.

 

Take whichever door feels right, and stay for as long as you’d like.

 

And perhaps, one day, you’ll leave a room of your own behind.