Westlake University welcomes its 2026 undergraduate freshmen at the Yungu Campus in Hangzhou on Aug 8. [Photo/Westlake University]

Westlake University welcomed more than 250 new undergraduates at its 2026 opening ceremony at the Yungu Campus in Hangzhou on Aug 8.

Many freshmen said Hangzhou's openness and the university's flexible approach to education were key reasons behind their choice. Westlake University allows students greater freedom to explore academic interests, with mentoring and residential college systems, early access to laboratories and flexibility in choosing majors.

President Shi Yigong encouraged students to embrace uncertainty and challenges in scientific research, saying that trial and error can help cultivate independent thinking and resilience.

Former basketball star Yao Ming also attended the ceremony, encouraging students to pursue interests beyond academics and become "artists of science."

Westlake University expanded its domestic undergraduate enrollment this year to nine provincial-level regions as well as Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan. The university also welcomed international freshmen from 15 countries and regions, including Germany, Romania, Russia and Denmark.

More than 250 new undergraduates attend Westlake University's 2026 opening ceremony in Hangzhou. [Photo/Westlake University]