Three sisters in China, Hong Yilan, Hong Qilan, and Hong Shenglan, have made headlines for being accepted into Fuzhou University after attending kindergarten, primary school, and secondary school together. The 19-year-old triplets achieved high scores in the gaokao, China’s standardised university entrance exam, and were each awarded a RMB10,000 (S$1,835) scholarship for their academic excellence.
## Background
The sisters’ mother, Hong Yashuang, shared that the girls have always been very close. Their names collectively mean “being born together” and are a homonym for “achieving victory together.” Since childhood, the triplets have been self-disciplined, often engaging in reading, drawing, or calligraphy while their parents were at work. Yilan, the eldest, mentioned that although they are academic rivals, they also support each other emotionally, especially during their preparation for the gaokao, where they scored 602, 605, and 590 out of 750.
## Victory together
Hong Yashuang expressed her pride in her daughters’ achievements, noting their close bond and mutual support. “They were born together, grew up together, and share the closest relationship in the world,” she said. The triplets’ names symbolise their unity and collective success, reflecting their journey from childhood to university.
## Moving ahead
Since learning of their acceptance into Fuzhou University, the sisters have been “very excited,” according to The Paper. Yilan, Qilan, and Shenglan will be studying information management, international trade, and mineral processing, respectively. They are eagerly preparing for university life, looking forward to new experiences such as trying food in the cafeteria and making new friends. Their mother hopes they will continue to encourage each other and excel in their studies.
## Future aspirations
The triplets’ story has garnered significant attention, highlighting the unique bond they share and their collective academic success. As they embark on their university journey, their mother remains hopeful for their continued support and hard work. The sisters’ achievement serves as an inspiring example of familial support and dedication to education.
