Cover image via Douyin
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At most university graduations, it's a dean or top student who gives the big speech. However, at Yanbian University in China, it was the campus mak cik kantin who stole the hearts across the campus.
Liu Xiaomei, a canteen cook at the university in Jilin province, addressed the class of 2025 by taking to the stage in her white kitchen hat and apron.
"As a service worker at the canteen, I feel honoured to be part of [this] beautiful youth period of your life," she said, her voice trembling on the verge of tears as she addressed the hundreds of students.
"You often ask me, auntie, why do you have such a good service attitude? Why do you always smile?" she continued.
"It is because I think you are far away from your hometown and it is not easy for you to study. If I work harder, perhaps you will be happier and your parents will feel more assured," she said.
"At home, you are the baby of your parents. At school, you are the baby of uncles and aunties," she said, referring to herself and the rest of the support staff at the university
Finally, she reminded students to eat proper meals and "not just delivered food and instant noodles".
Showing support for the students the best way she knew how:Liu also said her team prepared 15,000 dumplings for the graduates.
By the time she was done, it was reported that students were seen weeping at the canteen lady's warm support and advice
Liu's speech has also racked up over five million likes online, with state media like CCTV and People's Daily widely resharing videos of her address.
One comment summed it up best: "No one talks to me in this way except my mother."
Some graduation speeches give advice. Liu's gave love.
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