The Dropout: A Story About Education, Mental Health, and the Gaokao

Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. Thank you for joining me today. I want to start by sharing a conversation I had with my close friend, W.Y., that really struck a chord with me. W.Y. used to be a straight-A student, always full of laughter and joy. However, after we finished all our courses and were preparing for the Gaokao exam, his grades began to decline. I could sense that something was bothering him, but he couldn't bring himself to talk about it. Our conversations always revolved around grades or something irrelevant, never about our dreams or aspirations.

One day, W.Y. stopped showing up at school. At first, I thought he might have fallen ill, but as time went on and he still didn't return, I became worried. I couldn't contact him and started fearing the worst. Then, I remembered a conversation we had before. W.Y. asked me, 'Andrew, what is your understanding of education?' I replied, 'To me, education represents a pursuit of knowledge.' W.Y. nodded and added, 'Indeed, but I believe education should go beyond acquiring facts. It should involve exploring our passions and discovering our true selves.'

We both agreed that our school neglected these ideals and instead focused solely on grades. W.Y. lamented that education should transcend textbooks and exams, kindling curiosity and fostering critical thinking. I shared my frustration about the system stifling my creativity and leaving little room for introspection. Little did I know at the time that W.Y.'s struggle with the pressure of the Gaokao had led him to drop out of school due to serious depression.

Learning about W.Y.'s experience made me reflect on my own mental well-being. As I sat in my classroom, I felt like my soul was observing the entire class. We were all like machines, working tirelessly without feeling. I realized that I too had become a puppet, dancing to the whims of others, trapped in a meaningless loop. All my efforts were directed towards running in one direction, but I hadn't even taken the time to decide which path to take.

It is crucial for us to break free from this monotonous loop and rediscover the true essence of education. We need to prioritize our mental well-being, explore different areas of knowledge, pursue our passions, cultivate critical thinking, and embrace the joy of learning. While the Gaokao may play a role in shaping our future, it should not define our entire existence. Our worth extends far beyond a score on a piece of paper.

In conclusion, let us remember that education is not just about grades and exams. It is about discovering who we are, exploring our passions, and nurturing our mental well-being. We have the power to effect change and break free from the shackles of conformity. Together, let us embrace our unique identities and create a future where education is a journey of self-discovery and growth. Thank you.