Learn How Pepperdine’s Sean Wu Earned Prestigious Rhodes Scholarship

Sean Wu, a Seaver College senior, was named Pepperdine University’s first Rhodes scholar on Saturday, November 16, 2024. With this accomplishment, Wu joins a cohort of 32 other American undergraduate students who will each receive a full scholarship to pursue graduate studies abroad at the University of Oxford. 

The Rhodes scholarship is one of the most competitive and prestigious awards an undergraduate can achieve. Since 1904, just 3,674 Americans have been named Rhodes scholars—all of whom model academic excellence, are ambitious to create a social impact, and possess strong collaborative skills. Applicants for the award go through an extensive screening process, which culminates in a final reception and interview to determine each candidates’ aptitude. 

“I believe that this award demonstrates that Pepperdine can compete on a global stage while upholding its core values of kindness, compassion, and servant-minded leadership,” says Wu. “I  hope this opens the door for future Pepperdine students to pursue and achieve similar opportunities.”

Read more about Wu and how his remarkable academic background lead him to this tremendous accomplishment on the University Newsroom.