How did the thief gain entry? Through an open window or the main entrance door? How many people have keys to your apartment - the management, previous occupants? Can you identify the people who have been in your apartment as guests? Does the campus have any CCTV cameras?

I'm not trying to be an amatuer sleuth here, but this is either an opportunist thief or someone who knew the layout and attendant security.

The problem with a theft like this is not just the loss of your computer but all the data you have collected on you internal hard disk and external hard drive.

I would agree with all these points.

If a window has been left open, with no bars to prevent access, then that is a possible.

I would go with someone who knew the layout and security. It speaks volumes most Chinese I have met in the east and south, have nothing good to say about the Chinese from Sichuan and W China in general. Be careful out there!!!