Chinese influencer Zhong Meimei overcomes abuse, self-funds Boston University admission
From mimicking teachers at 13 to earning tuition for a top US university...
Zhong Meimei, born Zhong Yusheng, is a 19-year-old Chinese influencer who rose to fame in May 2020 when he started posting videos mimicking female teachers at primary and middle schools. Dubbed an 'imitation genius' by netizens, his spot-on impersonations—down to lines, expressions, and movements—earned him 1 million followers in just one month. By end of 2020, he won a national video creation award from New Weekly. Over the years, he diversified into impersonating hotel receptionists, crew members, and office workers while balancing his studies.
On June 22, Zhong announced his admission to Boston University (BU) for the next academic year, with tuition and living costs fully covered by his online earnings. He openly addressed speculation about nepotism or bribery, stating, 'BU is a highly qualified university. You cannot get enrolled simply because of money.' His backstory includes an abusive father; his motivation is to become his family's pillar and protect his mother and younger sister. This self-funded journey highlights the transformative power of digital entrepreneurship for young talents in China.
- Zhong Meimei (19) gained 1 million followers in one month with his teacher impersonation videos at age 13.
- He won a national video creation award from New Weekly in 2020 and continued producing diverse impersonation content.
- He self-funded his Boston University tuition and living costs entirely through his online earnings, refuting claims of improper admission.
Why It Matters
Demonstrates how digital influence can break financial and familial barriers, enabling access to elite US education.