to mend one's ways and apply oneself to diligent study; to change one's former habits and dedicate oneself to learning
他过去总是玩乐，后来听从父母的劝告，折节读书，终于考上了理想的大学。
He used to spend all his time on recreation, but later, following his parents' advice, he mended his ways and applied himself to diligent study, eventually getting admitted to his ideal university.
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