Xie Yanting Photo: Hongxing News

An external student suffering from cerebral palsy enrolled at a university in Northwest China has overcome his physical disability to pursue his study in mathematics. The student has published three SCI papers during his 12 years as an auditor and now he has submitted the draft of his PhD dissertation.

Xie Yanting enrolled in Lanzhou University in Gansu Province as an undergraduate auditor in 2011 and became a graduate auditor in 2015. 

Now as a PhD external student at the School of Mathematics and Statistics of the university, Xie has continued doing scientific research, while reading and writing papers like a normal student almost every day, even though his special physical condition and upbringing have placed an extra burden on his academic career. 

The disability left him with almost no use of his arms, his fingers tangled and he even struggles to drink from a glass. He could only move the mouse with his left hand and type with one finger tapping the keyboard. 

During the 12 years at Lanzhou University, Xie has made nearly 10 major research achievements, including three SCI papers as the first author, an honored graduate and something more important to him, such as friendship, happiness and hope.

Xie has finished the 94-page draft of his PhD dissertation recently, submitted it to his supervisor, and is confidently waiting for his graduation defense.

While enjoying the kind help of those around him, Xie always keeps an eye on people with the similar physical disability and he often chats with them online. 

Most of them stay at home without jobs or hobbies. Xie said he hopes to become a role model and pioneer for those suffering from cerebral palsy so that the group can gain more attention and support.

Hongxing News