Xiang Haiqing (a pseudonym), a 22-year-old student at Shanghai Fisheries University, recently gained notoriety for living far beyond the means of an average financially disadvantaged student. He was receiving a monthly stipend of 500 yuan and had his annual tuition of 6,000 yuan covered by actress Sun Li. However, Xiang repeatedly requested more money, including asking for 1,000 yuan within ten days last December, despite Sun Li having already purchased a mobile phone and camera for him.
Consequently, Sun Li decided to stop funding his living expenses but continues to pay his tuition, hoping to encourage his independence. Xiang defended his actions by citing the social expenses required for his role as a student officer.
This incident sparked a broader discussion on donations to students in need. According to 2005 Ministry of Education statistics, approximately 4 million students, or 25% of the total student population, faced financial difficulties. Donations, often paired with student loans, help these students. They typically come in two forms: anonymous donations and paired donations where the donor and recipient maintain contact.
A survey of financially disadvantaged university students in Beijing suggests a preference for anonymity. Over 70% of recipients preferred not to be identified, with only 16% willing to reveal their status. One freshman from Guangdong who received a 500-yuan donation stated, "I don't want others to know I'm poor. If I had to, I'd rather not accept the donation."
In contrast, Professor Lin Guirui, a psychology expert at Capital Normal University, encourages students to confront their economic situation. "It's not a shame to be poor," he said. While acknowledging that anonymity can better protect students' self-esteem, he noted that direct contact with a donor—often a more experienced individual—can aid personal growth and provide valuable social insights.
Sun Li's experience has placed her at the center of a debate regarding the appropriate boundaries and methods of charitable giving to students.