Wen's smile shines all the way THE year 2008 was a rocky one for Chinese people. We tasted the glories of China's first-ever Olympics and spacewalk. We also experienced a snowstorm, an earthquakeand a financial crisis. Some extraordinarypeople endured these ups and downs with us. They inspired us, challenged stereotypes and helped to shape society's outlook. So, in our year-end round-up, 21st Century looks at the changes these people brought about. Person of the Year Premier Wen Jiabao was chosen "Person of the Year" by 21st Century after discussion with readers because he was on the frontlines whenever he was needed. He was also chosen because he has changed the way most Chinese see politicians, as he is not a typical bureaucrat chasing the spotlight. To young people, Wen is a "grandpa" who encourages them to be realistic while looking for jobs amid the financial crisis. They often post comments on his Facebook page, calling him "Baobao". On Monday, Wen joined students at Chongqing University, encouraging them to be optimistic and confident during the financial crisis. The visit was not originally on his already busy two-day schedule in Chongqing. But students are often on the mind of the premier. On December 20, he visited Beijing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics and told students at the library: "In a difficult time like the current one, get a job first, no matter if it is relevant to your major or not." When Wen, 66, was trekking to the top of a ice-covered mountain in Guizhou in February, power grid rescue workers yelled, "Stop it, Premier. It's dangerous." But he took the risk because he wanted to say hello to the workers in person. Wen is a caring man who weeps freely at the plight of the common people. On May 13, he burst into tears when he heard, in the rubble of a Dujiangyan primary school, that two children were still alive. "Be strong, you will be rescued," he shouted to the children with tears in his eyes. Students speak out about the premier Zhao Qichong 24, senior mechanical engineering major at Beijing University of Aeronautics and Astronautic "Fortunately, I was studying at the library on the day Premier Wen visited our university. I hurried to his side when he entered the library and, luckily, I got a chance to ask him about the job prospects of college students. The premier told me that we should not feel down if we can't find a job in our preferred area. I think his opinion is very new for a man over 60. In his one hour with us, the premier spoke very slowly and clearly, and sometimes he stopped to ask for our opinions. But he looks tired and older than on TV. He must be working too hard." Li Yuanqi 21, junior majoring in publishing studies at Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai Campu "I remember seeing the premier on TV holding a crying baby in a tent after the earthquake. He looked like an old grandpa calming his frightened grandson. This scene moved me. His personality charms me. To me, he is not a distant leader but a person you can feel close to. I hope he takes good care of himself and keeps smiling, as I like his smile the most." Interviews by Li Wenwen and Zhang Chunmei Here's why ‘Baobao' moved us in 2008 The snowstorm January 28 - February 7