The 19-year-old Columbia University student who was found dead, hanging in a student-housing residence, Thursday afternoon has been identified.

A janitor discovered the body of Kirk Wu of Pasadena, Calif., in a shared public bathroom, with a cloth around his neck, on the seventh -floor undergraduate student dormitory of McBain Hall on 113th Street and Amsterdam Avenue just after 1 p.m., officials said.

School officials identified him and said Wu was a sophomore. In a public statement about his passing, dean of the college James J. Valentini spoke of Wu’s time at the university, where he was an editor for the Columbia Economic Review and a member of the Taekwondo club.

“Kirk was also a self-professed birdwatcher and museum enthusiast. His adviser told me he was a friendly student with a contagious laugh,” Valentini said.

“We care deeply about the grief and sadness you may be feeling, and we are here for you,” he said, addressing students. “Whether or not you knew Kirk, you may find comfort in gathering with your community.”

Students reacted to the news with shock and sadness Thursday.

“I notice this happening around midterms and finals. It must have been the stress of taking the exam or finding out their grades,” said a student who asked not to be named.

“This week and next week is midterms.”

He added, “They have a call-in center. They are pushing information, ‘If you need help come to us,’ and they are educating students and faculty to recognize the signs when someone isn’t doing well.”

The school has had a rash of student suicides in the past.