Wu Han, from Guangdong province, recently attracted widespread attention on Chinese social media. She shared two photos taken 17 years apart, marking her master's graduation from Tsinghua University's Academy of Arts and Design in June.

Tsinghua University is one of China's most prestigious institutions, boasting a 115-year history. It has educated numerous leaders and scientists, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, aerospace scientist Qian Xuesen, and linguist Ji Xianlin.

Wu Han and her father in front of Tsinghua University gate in 2009 (left) and 2026 (right). *Photo: SCMP*

Wu first visited Beijing with her father in 2009, at the age of 9. Her father, who regretted missing his own dream of attending Tsinghua University, took a photo with his daughter in front of the school gate. The image shows Wu sitting on her father's back, making a V-sign for victory.

Wu's father, a fine arts graduate who was admitted to the Chinese painting department of Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts in 1993, had once harbored hopes of studying at Tsinghua himself.

With her father's guidance, Wu began drawing in kindergarten, initially viewing it as a hobby. Recognizing the challenging path of an artist, her father encouraged her to pursue design instead.

Wu initially studied natural sciences in high school but later shifted to social sciences to prepare for the university entrance exam in arts. This exam required candidates to demonstrate proficiency in general knowledge and various art forms, including fine arts, music, and dance.

She failed the exam in her first attempt when her artwork deviated from the assigned topic, necessitating a retake. The following year, Wu successfully gained admission to Tsinghua University's Academy of Arts and Design, as one of only 13 students from Guangdong province accepted that year.

During her undergraduate studies, Wu received a recommendation for the postgraduate program and continued her master's degree at Tsinghua. After graduating, she asked her father to recreate their childhood photo, this time with her in a purple graduation gown.

"The two photos make me feel clearly that destiny will guide you to where you want to go", Wu said.

Her father remarked that carrying his daughter 17 years ago felt effortless, a stark contrast to now. "It turns out she has grown up, and I have gotten old", he commented.

He expressed hope that Wu would make further progress in design and the Internet industry, and that his grandchildren might one day also attend Tsinghua University.

The two photos quickly garnered over 1 million likes on social media.

"The father's gaze is so determined. Now he cannot carry his daughter anymore, but love makes him fearless", one commenter wrote.

"It turns out that is why I was not admitted to Tsinghua University, because my dad never took me to take a photo at the school gate", another person joked.

Hong Hanh (According to SCMP, Sina)