Carmen (left) and Cullinan at South Gate Photo Studio

Peking University, July 1, 2024: Every year, Peking University (PKU) celebrates the graduation of thousands of students, each with a unique journey. The "Graduation Portraits" exhibition, recently held on campus, showcases their achievements and experiences through photos taken by the South Gate Photo Studio, a student-run initiative at PKU's School of Journalism and Communication. 

Through the lens of the South Gate Photo Studio, we witness the stunning graduation moments of the Class of 2024. Among them is Cullinan Li, whose graduation photo captures an important supportive figure — Carmen Wong, his girlfriend, who is a junior student at PKU. Cullinan will be graduating from PKU’s School of Physics and continuing on to a direct Ph.D. at PKU’s Center for Quantitative Biology. Hear how they’ve supported each other along the way!

Carmen and Cullinan pose for a picture during a traditional instrument orchestra performance

Cullinan and Carmen first met at PKU's Chinese Music Institute, where he played the dizi and she was a percussionist. As core members of the Institute, they worked closely together and became good friends. During the epidemic in 2022, the Institute organized study sessions. With nowhere to go, these study sessions gave them the chance to spend time together – sharing meals, studying late into the night, and having daily conversations. It was during this time that they discovered they had many similarities, and “unknowingly,” their friendship blossomed into love.
 

A photo taken in 2022 shows Cullinan Li study on campus

Cullinan credits their relationship as a cornerstone of his success. He vividly recalls a month-long experiment that failed, leaving him feeling crushed. Carmen showed up at his lab with encouraging words and a comforting hug. Her quiet confidence reminded him that he wasn’t alone, and he found the strength to persevere. With renewed determination, Cullinan adjusted his approach and completed his graduation project.

Their relationship has also fostered individual growth. Cullinan, once introverted, has become more outgoing, finding it easier to connect with people of different personalities and gaining new experiences. For Carmen, who describes herself as a “master procrastinator,” she has learned to plan ahead and avoid unnecessary late nights. For both of them, their relationship has been a source of mutual growth and support.
   

As Carmen looks forward to her own graduation next year, she congratulates Cullinan with a heartfelt message: “Congratulations on your graduation! This is an exciting new chapter. Remember to stay true to yourself, keep pushing forward, and achieve all your goals!”

This story is featured in PKU News' "Graduation 2024" series.

Written by: Glenda Ho
Edited by: Dennis Meng
Photos by: Courtesy of Carmen Wong