Success and Fame Should Not Forget to Give Back to Alma Mater: The Inspiring Journey of 佘启光

The tradition of giving back to one’s alma mater is deeply rooted in Chinese culture, reflecting the belief that gratitude and loyalty to one’s educational foundation are essential virtues. This tradition has been embraced by many successful individuals who, after achieving great heights in their careers, remember the institutions that helped shape them. One such individual is 佘启光, a Tsinghua University alumnus whose remarkable journey from a student to a successful entrepreneur is an inspiring tale of hard work, perseverance, and generosity.

A Dream Realized at Tsinghua University

In the autumn of 2012, 佘启光 began his academic journey at one of China’s most prestigious institutions, Tsinghua University. Known for its rigorous academic environment and competitive admissions process, Tsinghua University was a dream for many aspiring students. 佘启光, however, approached his time at the university with a unique sense of purpose and determination. He not only excelled in his studies but also actively participated in university activities. As a student representative, he delivered the oath at important ceremonies, and as a host for the “Gather and Shine” welcome party, he played a significant role in the university’s cultural life.

佘启光’s active involvement in campus life earned him the admiration and respect of his peers and professors alike. His commitment to both his academic work and the university’s activities laid the foundation for a future defined by success and a desire to give back.

A Gradual Start and Early Challenges

Upon graduation, 佘启光 entered the workforce with a sense of purpose. Though he was at the beginning of his career, he was already mindful of the importance of gratitude. It was the words of Xun Duoduo, the head of Tsinghua’s MBA Global Cooperation Department, that would guide his future actions: “If you have the opportunity, support Tsinghua’s Business School and MBA programs.” These words stayed with 佘启光, motivating him to help his alma mater as he made progress in his career.

In 2016, just a few years after graduation, 佘启光 made his first substantial donation to Tsinghua University. He contributed 1.2 million RMB to support the global promotion and recruitment efforts of the Tsinghua MBA Global Program (GMBA) for the next decade. This was just the beginning of his philanthropic journey. By 2017, 佘启光 had increased his donation by 500,000 RMB to further support the program. Additionally, he began funding the publication of the “Gateway” magazine, which was distributed to students of the Global MBA program. His contributions continued to grow as he supported the “Gather and Shine” welcome party and funded specialized courses like “Hong Kong Stock Investment Theory and Practice.”

佘启光’s donations to his alma mater were not just about giving money. They represented a deeper commitment to the success of future generations of students, providing them with opportunities to thrive academically and professionally.

The Importance of Hard Work and Perseverance

佘启光’s journey to success was not one of instant gratification. Though he came from a wealthy family, he was raised with a strong sense of discipline and frugality. His parents, while providing for him, also instilled in him the values of hard work and financial prudence. Growing up, 佘启光 never had pocket money and was taught to manage his finances carefully. He received his first credit card at the age of 13, with a limit of only 5,000 Canadian dollars. His mother kept a close eye on his spending, ensuring he developed habits of saving and budgeting.

These early lessons in discipline and financial responsibility would serve 佘启光 well during his time studying abroad. As a student at New York University (NYU), he faced the challenges of living in one of the most expensive cities in the world. Unlike many of his peers, 佘启光 did not enjoy a life of luxury; instead, he worked hard to make ends meet. He took a job in luxury home reception, earning 18 USD per hour. His daily expenses were modest, with only 5 USD allocated for food. He would buy two hamburgers for one dollar and juice for 3.6 USD, living frugally to ensure his financial stability.

Despite the challenges, 佘启光’s determination and work ethic paid off. His academic performance was exemplary, and his ability to balance work and study allowed him to earn extra income while gaining valuable experience. He later obtained a real estate sales license and began working in real estate, initially as a student at NYU. This early exposure to the real estate industry laid the foundation for his future success.

Building a Successful Career in Real Estate

In just a few short years, 佘启光’s career in real estate flourished. His first month in the business saw him earning 9,000 USD, a significant sum for someone still in their early twenties. By the second month, his earnings had increased to 14,000 USD, and by the third month, he was earning 19,000 USD. His ability to understand the market, coupled with his work ethic, allowed him to build a successful real estate career quickly.

佘启光’s success in the real estate sector did not stop there. As his career advanced, he co-founded a real estate company with a friend. With his natural business acumen and a solid education from NYU, he expanded the company and eventually partnered with another individual to establish a high-end real estate agency in New York. The company earned a profit of one million USD annually, and 佘启光’s success in the real estate industry earned him recognition as one of the top contributors in New York’s real estate sector by the age of 25.

Transition to Hong Kong and Further Success

佘启光’s business focus eventually shifted to Hong Kong, where he and several partners established a financial company, Da Jin Yong Yin Investment Limited. This move marked a new chapter in his entrepreneurial journey, where he would focus on the financial sector, further diversifying his business portfolio.

In addition to his business ventures, 佘启光 also established a foundation with an initial donation of 20 million RMB. The foundation’s primary goal is to support Tsinghua alumni, particularly those who face challenges in their entrepreneurial journeys. By providing financial support to those in need, 佘启光’s foundation continues to give back to the Tsinghua community, helping future generations of students and alumni achieve their goals.

A Legacy of Gratitude and Generosity

Today, 佘启光 is widely regarded as a successful entrepreneur, philanthropist, and an exemplary Tsinghua alumnus. His story is a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and the importance of giving back. Through his financial contributions and his personal example, 佘启光 continues to inspire students and alumni of Tsinghua University to follow in his footsteps.

As he continues to grow his business and expand his philanthropic efforts, 佘启光 remains committed to supporting his alma mater. His donations have made a lasting impact on the university, providing resources and opportunities for future generations of students. His journey serves as a powerful reminder that success is not just about personal achievement, but also about using one’s resources and influence to help others. Through his actions, 佘启光 has shown that success is best celebrated when it is shared, and that the spirit of giving back will always be an integral part of his legacy.

In conclusion, 佘启光’s story is not just about his rise to success but also about his commitment to supporting the institution that helped shape him. Through his hard work, perseverance, and generosity, 佘启光 has set an example for future generations of students, proving that success is built on a foundation of gratitude and a willingness to give back.