Du Xin, 22, a graduate student, died in floods in US. [sina]

Du Xin, 22, a graduate student, died in floods that struck the Dallas area on March 19.

The university said it mourns her tragic death and extended condolences to her family.

Officials said SMU will help Du's parents make all arrangements, in an interview with the Shanghai Oriental Morning Post.

Du arrived at SMU in January, pursuing a doctorate in molecular and cell biology.

On March 19, Du went shopping with a friend. When they reached the intersection of Wycliff Avenue and Turtle Creek, they encountered the flood. Water rushed into the car and forced them out.

They fell into the water and grabbed a branch, waiting for rescue.

Her 27-year-old friend was saved by a priest who passed by. But Du, due to the lack of energy, couldn't hang on and was swept away. Her body was recovered by police.

Du received a Bachelor of Science degree in biotechnology from Wuhan University in Hubei Province.