Editor's note: Li Donghua, 32, has taken the gaokao, China's college entrance exam, 10 times. He finally passed this year.

I've been in love with painting since I was a boy. Many art teachers have told me I have talent and have encouraged me to apply to the Central Academy of Fine Arts, one of the best art schools in China.

It's been my dream to be enrolled there, but to do it I have to pass the gaokao.