By writers Zhang Zhenge, Tian Ying
BEIJING, June 7 (Xinhua) -- China's noisy building sites muffled their drills Monday, and the blaring of car horns was stifled as the country tried to let the nation's high school seniors sit the National College Entrance Exam in peace.
The annual two-day exam, or "gaokao" in Chinese, is the only opportunity for high school students to win a place at university, making it the most important test most will ever sit in their lives.
Beijing tried to create a friendly environment for test takers, with govenment officials, private corporations and individuals doing their bit.
Retired doctor Huang Bo, 66, stood outside the Beijing No.4 High School, an exam site, with his medical box. "I brought free medicines here in case students need them," he said.
Cui Zhengwei, who works for a private motor company, was handing out bottled water and fans to parents waiting outside the exam site.
"My company does this voluntarily," he said. "We're glad we can do something for the examinees and their parents."
Their company was also providing free transport for students. "Those who need to be picked up just have to call us and schedule the service," said Cui.
