研究生「退学潮」

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the increasing trend of graduate students in China choosing to drop out of their programs due to overwhelming academic and psychological pressures, despite the expanding enrollment in master's programs [1][2][3]. Group 1: Statistics and Trends - In 2025, the number of applicants for the national master's entrance exam is projected to reach 3.88 million, with only 872,200 spots available, resulting in nearly 3 million candidates not being admitted [1]. - Approximately 500,000 students drop out of Chinese universities each year, with a dropout rate of nearly 3% among enrolled students [1]. - Among graduate students, the proportion of those who do not graduate on time is as high as 25% [1]. Group 2: Psychological and Academic Pressure - Despite the increase in graduate program enrollment, students face intensified academic and psychological pressures, leading to feelings of burnout and internal conflict [2]. - Many students, once seen as high achievers, find themselves unable to complete their research projects or theses, prompting them to consider dropping out [3][4]. Group 3: Personal Experiences and Decisions - Students who have dropped out report that their decision was not impulsive but rather the culmination of prolonged feelings of frustration and anxiety [3][4]. - The process of deciding to leave graduate school often involves significant emotional turmoil, with students feeling the weight of expectations from family and society [16][18]. - The transition from a focus on learning to a focus on research is challenging for many, leading to feelings of inadequacy and pressure [19][20]. Group 4: Social Dynamics and Environment - The laboratory environment is described as a space of interpersonal conflict and power struggles, contributing to the decision to leave [27][28]. - Students often feel isolated and unsupported in their research groups, leading to a sense of being overworked and undervalued [30][40]. Group 5: Aftermath and New Beginnings - After leaving their programs, students experience a mix of relief and uncertainty, as they navigate their new paths outside academia [47][50]. - The decision to drop out is framed as a reclaiming of personal agency and freedom, with students exploring new career opportunities and life choices [59].