But they are not animal activists calling for greater protection of China’s national symbol. /CFP Photo

Instead, it was an expression of their determination to work hard at a grass-roots level after graduation and refuse to be spoiled like the panda. /CFP Photo

They formed a heart shape circle around the Chinese characters for “dream” and “hardship” to call for students to be more down-to-earth and realize their dreams one step at a time. /CFP Photo