A look into Chinese born in the 2000s

Growing up to be tough guys in military camps

"Many think we are very young. However, we have actually grown up," said a recruit.

It's reported that some recruits were born in September 2000, which means they will carry guns to defend our country.

"We can endure hardships and are ready to accept everything, no matter what it is," said a recruit born in the 2000s. The young man said that the military campus is very cool. He enjoyed a fulfilling life there and felt happy, though he admitted he is very tired every day, in response to a question as to why he chose to be a military recruit.

Obviously, the millennials have to face many challenges. Some are common ones such as folding up their quilts.

And some are not that common.

For example, a recruit named Fan Shisen used to play games, watch TV dramas and chat with friends on his mobile phone, so he never slept before 12 am and never got up before 11 am. After waking up each morning, Fan used to pick up the phone beside his pillow to order takeout and begin a new day by logging on to apps.

Due to his unhealthy lifestyle, Fan, who is not tall, weighed almost 95 kilograms.

After entering the military campus, Fan had to hand in his mobile phone and could only get it back at free time. Besides, the young man would have to be in his bed at 10 pm and get up at 6 am.

During the first week, Fan could not help thinking of his phone and the takeout he once ordered because he couldn't fall asleep after lying in bed so early at night.

With more and more training, Fan has become accustomed to military life. He lost 25 kilograms after three and a half months of training.