Family’s love of Tsinghua spans generations

Editor's Note

May 15th marks the International Day of Families, which holds the significance of appreciating the role that families play in shaping our individual and collective identities. Today, we’d like to share the story of a #TsinghuaRen family, which has been a part of the Tsinghua community for two generations and witnessed the university’s growth and development over time. 

Through their experiences, we will gain insights into the ways in which families can be influenced by educational institutions like Tsinghua, and the role that families play in supporting and nurturing intergenerational academic and personal growth.

Mike Qian is currently a sophomore at Tsinghua’s School of Economics and Management. Members of Mike’s family have experienced Tsinghua from different perspectives throughout their lives.

Both Mike’s parents, Guo Shuhong and Qian Xiaojian, are alumni of Tsinghua who graduated back in 1987. Their relationship began at Tsinghua. Shuhong was admitted into Tsinghua’s School of Environment in 1982 upon completing the college entrance exam, while Xiaojian was admitted into the School of Civil Engineering. 

During their first year at Tsinghua, Shuhong and Xiaojian met and started developing their lifelong relationship. Mike often hears romantic stories from his parents, most of which took place on Tsinghua campus. 

From picnicking on the grass fields, to listening to ensembles at the music hall, even mundane activities such as studying together at the libraries created unforgettable memories. 

Shuhong and Xiaojian often discussed their fulfilling experience at Tsinghua during family chats. Mike says, “My parents often reminisce about the little details at Tsinghua, such as the mouth-watering cafeteria food and the vibrant dormitory life.” Mike is especially impressed by the long-term bonds that Tsinghua allowed his parents to build. 

“Throughout my childhood, my parents took me to various Tsinghua reunions and gatherings,” says Mike. “They introduced me to their classmates and friends, and I realized that attending Tsinghua is not only an academic experience, but also an opportunity to develop friendships with some of the most brilliant minds in China.” 

In addition to informal gatherings, Shuhong and Xiaojian also brought Mike to various Tsinghua University Anniversary celebrations such as 108th anniversary. 

“My last time being on campus was during the 2019 anniversary celebration, which coincided with the exam week. The large and modern libraries filled with motivated students and the friendly people who helped us navigate the beautiful campus left a deep impression on me,” Mike commented. Having lived in Beijing for over six years, he claims that Tsinghua is the most beautiful spot in the entire city. 

Due to these reasons and Tsinghua’s academic excellence, it became one of the top choices on Mike’s university application shortlist. When he received the offer from his top choice college, the School of Economics and Management, he immediately accepted the offer. 

When asked about the role of Tsinghua in his life, Mike responded, “If it weren’t for Tsinghua, my parents probably would never have met, and I wouldn’t even be alive.” Mike is grateful for Tsinghua not only for this, but also for providing him an enriching academic experience.

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TsinghuaRen | Family’s love of Tsinghua spans generations

Writers: Mike Qian, Liu Zhaoxi

Editor: Liu Shutian

Reviewers: Xu Liang, Lin Yuan

Designer: Xia Yifei