Hosted By: Megan Zhang & Christina Fu
The Southern California second-generation Tsinghua community came together for a memorable afternoon and evening of connection, fun, and reflection at a local regional meetup. Generously hosted in the hillside backyard of a fellow family, the gathering welcomed 20 Tsinghua Gen 2s along with a few Tsinghua parents into a warm and inviting space complete with a pool, hot tub, and a backyard grill.
The day began under the sun, with pool toys and water guns sparking laughter and playful energy. Attendees joined together to prepare skewers, sharing snacks and drinks as they basked outdoors. Some gravitated toward the hot tub for relaxed conversations, while others stretched out with yoga and calisthenics. High schoolers through recent graduates mingled freely, with the atmosphere marked by lighthearted water gun battles and casual bonding.
As the afternoon shifted toward evening, Tsinghua alumni joined in to help grill the skewers and surprised the group with fresh pizza. The sun dipped below the horizon in a striking pink glow, setting the stage for deeper conversations. Members reflected on relationships, career paths, their parents’ histories, and the shared cultural roots that tie them together. Excitement grew as discussions turned toward the future of TYCon, with many expressing commitment to building and sustaining the community across industries and interests.
The night closed on a warm note, with a few attendees preparing homemade boba tea while others gathered around a fire to roast s’mores. From playful moments to heartfelt dialogue, the SoCal meetup embodied the spirit of family and community, reminding all present that no matter the differences in background or pursuits, our Tsinghua Gen2 network remains united and strong.