All four occupants of an undergraduate dormitory room at Central South University in Changsha, Hunan province, have been accepted as PhD candidates. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

"Every once in a while, we have a group discussion to clarify problems we met. Through this, we gather strength and wisdom and grow together," Sui said.

In addition to urging each other to study hard, they support each other emotionally.

"Anyone in a low mood can speak out his unhappiness and get our comfort and encouragement," he said.

Zhu Youfang contributed to this story.