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New York University's independent student newspaper, established in 1973.

Washington Square News

New York University's independent student newspaper, established in 1973.

Washington Square News

New York University's independent student newspaper, established in 1973.

Washington Square News

A portrait of Qianshan (Ben) Weng.

Qianshan (Ben) Weng, Multimedia Editor

Qianshan Weng is a junior studying Media, Culture and Communication and Journalism. You may pronounce his name as “chi”en-shan”, or, if it makes your life easier, just call him “Ben.” He grew up in Shenzhen, China, and has spent the last five years or so saying that he wants to learn Cantonese. The answers to the questions “when will he finally start?” and “why is this taking him so long?” remain mysteries, even to himself. You can reach out to him at [email protected]

All content by Qianshan (Ben) Weng
An illustration of a megaphone with the phrase “Staff Rants” written on it. The megaphone wears a red Santa hat and the background is white with blue snowflakes.

Staff Rants: Holiday Overload

It's the end of the term, which means it's the holiday season! WSN staff shares their thoughts about it — the good and the bad, but mostly the bad.

On giving gifts Krish Dev — Deputy News Editor  Whenever I have to buy gifts for the holidays, I feel like I am walking on a tightrope — it’s a delicate balance between...

A person wearing a big-headed Buddha mask guides a lion to its offerings, a bowl of grapefruit and pastries.

A dance of lions

A photographer’s encounter with one of the largest Lunar New Year celebrations in New York’s Chinatown.
Qianshan Weng, Staff Photographer February 17, 2023

A female wearing a black down coat and carrying a tablet in her left hand speaks to a group of people in Chinatown. She is wearing a microphone on her ear.

Small-business renewal program rekindles Chinatown spirit

To bring Chinatown businesses affected by the pandemic back to the forefront, the Mott Street Girls held a walking tour that featured recipients of Citizens Bank’s Renewal Fund.
Linsey Liao and Qianshan Weng December 15, 2022

On a cold winter day in Manhattan’s Chinatown, a group congregated at the New China Hair Salon — a colorful, well-kept store nestled at Doyers Street. This was the starting...

Sofia Saleh with her arms and legs covered by the text “WOMEN” written with black chalk.

The resonant silence of performance artist Sofia Saleh

WSN photographers capture a performance artist protesting against the Iranian regime in silence in Washington Square Park on Nov. 4.
Shirene Anand and Qianshan Weng November 11, 2022

Iran erupted into mass political unrest after the death of Mahsa Amini — a 22-year-old woman who died after reportedly not wearing her hijab in accordance with government...