Warmth and Creativity in The Air as PKU Welcomes Its First-Years

Aug 20, 2025

Peking University, August 20, 2025: The Yanyuan campus was humming with excitement on the morning of August 18, as 4490 newly minted undergrads navigated in the beginning of a new chapter of their lives.

To ensure a smooth and memorable transitioning for the new comers, PKU rolled out a kaleidoscope of assistance programs and welcoming activities, guiding the students through registration, moving-in, and also acquainting them with their schools and majors.

Top leadership of the university, including He Guangcai, Chair of the PKU Council, and Gong Qihuang, President of PKU, was also present to share the joy of a new beginning. At the plaza north of Khoo Teck Puat Sports Complex, they inspected the reception procedures, thanking the staff and student volunteers for their hard work. Inside the Complex, they talked to new students, encouraging them to study hard and make the best of their youth.

This year, the university’s support program, known as the “Green Lane,” has provided to students in need gift bundles comprising 34 types of daily necessities, warming their hearts on their first day on campus.

For many students, the day marked their first encounter with their dream colleges and majors, an opportunity to pique their interest, which was leveraged perfectly with the various academically flavored welcoming activities.

The “class tree” in front of the College of Urban and Environmental Sciences booth was especially eye-catching. It symbolizes resilience and is nourished by water and soil brought by students from all over the country, a preview of ecological conservation for the students. In front the School of Psychological and Cognitive Sciences booth, there was a giant jigsaw puzzle which would present a panoramic view of PKU after students had filled in each piece with their name written on it. The School of Archaeology’s approach was more traditional, giving each student a little souvenir bearing an image of an artefact.

Relative departments have also brought their A game.

The Computing Center brought a student-designed robot with a superb communication skill; the Mental Health Center gave students a “time travel” with letters to the future; the school security’s booth put on not only displays warning of scams and online fraud, but also live fire extinguishing exercises; etc. Virtually all the school departments and colleges have set up a booth in the Complex, providing students with a comprehensive guide to campus life and academics.

Of course, various school facilities have also been given a glow-up for the new semester. From the new plumbing in buildings to the new furniture in dorms, and the newly opened Nongyuan dining hall, a sense of renewal permeated the whole campus.

A homely warmth was keenly present throughout the campus, as student volunteers were stationed at every corner, providing guidance and direction information to new students and parents. At the end of the day, many were already geared up to start their academic journey.