Courier's Son Turns Down Peking University for Newly Established Westlake University
In a surprising turn of events, a young man from Chongqing, China, has made headlines by choosing to attend Westlake University, a newly established private research institution, over the prestigious Peking University. Wan Xinyu, the son of a courier service worker, initially caught the public's attention when he scored an impressive 677 points on his gaokao, China's rigorous college entrance examination. His academic prowess led to an interview for Peking University's esteemed 'Qiangji Plan.'
1 August 2025
However, the story took an unexpected twist when, during his interview with Peking University, Wan received a personal call from Shi Yigong, the president of Westlake University. Following this call, Wan made the bold decision to forgo his opportunity at Peking University, along with other leading institutions such as Fudan University and Shanghai Jiao Tong University, opting instead to enroll at Westlake University.
The decision has sparked widespread discussion across China, touching on themes of social mobility, the value of traditional versus modern educational institutions, and the personalization of recruitment efforts by university leaders. Shi Yigong's direct involvement in reaching out to Wan has been a focal point of the story, highlighting an unusual and proactive approach to securing talented students.
Wan's mother, Wen Lijuan, initially struggled with her son's decision, given the long-standing prestige of Peking University. However, updates indicate that she has come to accept his choice, which has led him to a unique educational path that aligns with his personal and professional goals.
This story, alongside a more recent one about another courier's son being admitted to Peking University's astrophysics department, showcases the significant achievements of young people from diverse backgrounds and the evolving landscape of higher education in China. It also prompts a broader conversation about how students and families perceive the value and opportunities offered by different types of universities.
The narrative around Wan's decision underscores the importance of personal fit and the potential benefits of choosing a less conventional path in higher education. It reflects the changing dynamics in China's educational and employment sectors, suggesting that prestige is not the only factor that students consider when selecting a university. Instead, specialized research opportunities, direct engagement from university leadership, and a more tailored educational experience may hold equal, if not greater, appeal for today's students.
