After finishing the written exam during the day, Xu Zhiqiu spent the evening preparing for tomorrow's interview.
Unlike her last second-round assessment, this time she had taken the initiative to contact a professor in her chosen field. They had spoken over the phone, discussing her views and ideas about the discipline. Her prospective advisor was very pleased and looked forward to her interview.
Worried that she might suddenly disappear again, Xu Zhiqiu had taken off the Jade before heading to the written exam. That evening, she dared not let herself get distracted for even a moment and studied diligently, only checking her phone for a while before bed.
Her mom sent her a message telling her to stay calm.
Xu Zhiqiu replied, telling her mother to get to bed early and promising to call once she had the results.
Mom: Qiuqiu, if things don't turn out well, don't do anything rash. Your dad and I support you taking the civil service exam. We'll always stand behind you. (Flexed biceps)
Reading those warm words, Xu Zhiqiu felt warmth fill her heart. She was lucky to have such a wonderful family supporting her. How could she possibly let their hopes down?
Even more motivated, Xu Zhiqiu waited for tomorrow to arrive.
The next morning, Xu Zhiqiu opened her eyes when the alarm rang. Seeing the familiar furnishings, she let out a sigh of relief, then got up and gathered her things for that day's interview.
With her experience from the first interview and the buff from her prospective advisor, Xu Zhiqiu made it through the spoken English introduction and subject-specific questions fairly smoothly.
After leaving the examination room, she tilted her head up toward the brilliant sunshine and couldn't help smiling.
Although the second-round results would not be released for another three