Tianjin University (TJU) welcomed over 4,900 freshmen from the Class of 2024, marking the beginning of their academic journey. The university's meticulous preparations and heartfelt gestures ensured that the new students and their families had a smooth and welcoming experience.
To facilitate the arrival of students from across the country, TJU set up reception desks at Tianjin railway stations and airport. New students were provided with direct transportation to the campus, while self-driving families were guided by volunteers to designated parking areas. Additionally, shuttle services and volunteer assistance were available on campus to help freshmen and their families with luggage and registration, ensuring a seamless transition.
Recognizing the financial challenges faced by some students, TJU continued its tradition of offering a "Green Channel" at both campuses, allowing economically disadvantaged students to defer tuition payments, apply for student loans, and access financial aid services. The university also provided a special selection platform where these students could receive essential supplies such as stationery, books, and toiletries. For students from regions affected by recent floods, TJU offered temporary hardship grants and travel subsidies.
In terms of logistics, the university went above and beyond to ensure the comfort of new students and their families. The dining halls on both campuses were open all day, offering free drinking water, mung bean soup, and yogurt. Campus shops provided free maps, trolleys, and water bottles, while multiple service stations across the campus offered guidance and information. Dedicated vehicles were also on hand to help transport larger pieces of luggage to dormitories.
Each academic department and school adds their creative touch to the welcoming process. For example, the College of Intelligence and Computing showcased a large model of the "Tianwen" rover, attracting curious freshmen who eagerly engaged with faculty and staff. The School of Precision Instrument and Optoelectronics Engineering introduced its new mascots to inspire students as they embark on their university journey.
Other schools integrated their history and values into the welcome activities. The School of Chemical Engineering included historical elements in a gift box for freshmen, along with gratitude cards for students to share with their parents. The School of Marine Science and Technology featured a large signing board for students to write their message, symbolizing the start of their unique "TJU voyage."
Special initiatives also highlighted the diverse academic focus across the university. The School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, for example, featured cartoon figures representing its five disciplines and distributed custom-designed shirts with their symbol. Meanwhile, the School of Environmental Science and Engineering invited faculty and senior students to write personalized messages on postcards, creating a "blessing box" for freshmen to draw from.
The comprehensive efforts of TJU’s administration and academic departments ensured that the Class of 2024 felt welcomed, supported, and inspired as they embarked on their academic careers. Chen Yiyuan, a freshman majoring in Applied Physics from the Class of 2024, reflected on the university's legacy wall: "Seeing the generations of scientists who have passed down their knowledge and dedication, I am deeply moved. Both of my parents are also alumni of Tianjin University, and I entered TJU through the Strong Foundation Plan this year. I believe this is a continuation of that legacy, and I hope to contribute to the development of the country's fundamental sciences in the future."
By: Qin Mian
