By Bae Ji-sook
A total of 712,227 applicants will take the College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT) across the nation today.
This morning, a number of applicants will be arriving at test venues at the last minute, riding with police motorcades, while some students might fall sick due to nervous tension.
Television, newspapers and the Internet will be filled with all kinds of rumors and an analysis of the exam, and some self-ordained gurus will give guidelines as to which universities applicants should apply for right after the test is over.
It happens every year, but each time it grabs nationwide attention not only from the students but also the general public.
It is a nerve-wracking moment for both the applicants and their parents.
In a country where entering good universities is believed to guarantee a bright future for the rest of their lives, the day comes as a once-in-a-lifetime event for students and their families.
Indeed on Wednesday, a day before the test, students were trembling over what may come the next day.
They visited test centers in advance to check their seats and prepare necessities for the examination. They were told not to bring any electronic gadgets or devices that could facilitate cheating.
One big shot
The applicants showed mixed emotions. Some said they were thrilled to let go of the extreme stress in a day’s time while some wished that they had longer to prepare more thoroughly.
For Choi, 21, this is the third time taking the test. She wanted to study fashion design on her first and second attempts but this time, she has decided to be more realistic.
“I am quite good at math, so I decided to apply for engineering or science departments,” she said. She will be taking the test in Gwacheon, Gyeonggi Province. She said she is nervous because it feels like it’s the last chance for her. “If I fail to go to a university I want this time, I don’t know what I can do,” she said.
Her mother, Han, also expressed anxiety. “I know how hard she had worked for this. I hope it will all work out tomorrow,” she said, adding that she will be staying in church praying for her throughout the test.
Bae, who will be a high school senior next year, said he will be visiting a nearby school to cheer on candidates and wish them good luck. He said things are becoming real for him. “For a long time, I have tried to tell myself that all the test hype is for other people and the future is far away. However, next year, it’s going to my turn!” he said.
Nineteen-year-old Kim Hyun-woo in Seoul said he is rather relieved that things will be over on Thursday.
“For more than 12 years I have focused on taking this test. Regardless of the result, I will cheer over its completion and celebrate with a few of my friends. I am free!” he said smiling.
Businessmen are looking forward to the wrapping up of the test, too. The college-hopefuls have conventionally been a big hand in the entertainment, restaurant and other industries each season. Every year after the test, students have time on their hands and money to splurge on wining, dining, shopping and entertainment.
Cinemas, restaurants and pubs are giving discounts and plastic surgeons and beauty shops have started promoting exclusive package deals.
On Wednesday afternoon, a part-time worker was busy unfolding a placard to support the test-takers in central Seoul. He was promoting a special deal for overseas trips. “Yes, this is the official opening of a peak season,” he smiled.
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