June 7 marked the beginning of Gaokao 2025, China’s rigorous national college entrance examinations that determine the academic futures of millions of high school students. Across the nation, a wave of heartwarming rituals and traditions unfolded, showcasing community support and the collective spirit surrounding this pivotal event.
In cities like Binzhou, Shandong Province, students were greeted with cheers and high-fives from their teachers as they exited exam halls after the first session. The gesture symbolized encouragement and camaraderie, easing the tension of the high-stakes tests.
The color red, symbolizing good fortune and success in Chinese culture, was prominently featured throughout the exam period. Many parents donned traditional red cheongsams, or qipaos, a homophonic nod to “winning” in Chinese. Students tied red ribbons in their hair, embracing the cultural belief that the color brings luck.
Sunflowers, whose Chinese pronunciation resembles “ranking top,” were a common sight among parents waiting outside exam centers. Holding these bright flowers, they expressed their hopes for their children’s academic success and a bright future ahead.
Acts of kindness and solidarity extended beyond family and school. In one instance, police officers quickly assisted a student who had forgotten their identification, issuing a temporary ID within minutes to ensure they could sit for the exam without delay.
These touching scenes highlight that Gaokao is more than just a series of tests; it’s a national moment of unity and support. The blending of cultural symbolism with practical care underscores the importance of this milestone in the lives of young people and the broader community’s role in uplifting them.
As the Gaokao continues over the next few days, these traditions and acts of support serve as a reminder of the collective hope invested in the next generation, embodying the aspirations and solidarity of families and communities across China.
