Group 1 - The article discusses the challenges faced by recent graduates in finding suitable employment and the psychological impact of unemployment on them and their families [1][2][11] - It highlights the pressure from family and peers, as well as the struggle for self-worth when unable to secure a job [2][11] - The narrative includes personal experiences of individuals who have navigated similar situations, emphasizing the importance of finding any job to regain a sense of normalcy and social interaction [10][11] Group 2 - The article reflects on the societal expectations placed on graduates, suggesting that many have unrealistic views of job opportunities and the labor market [9][11] - It points out the structural issues in the economy that contribute to the difficulties in job hunting, indicating that these challenges are not solely the responsibility of the individuals [11][12] - The discussion includes varying perspectives on the choices available to graduates, with some arguing that taking any job is better than remaining unemployed, while others suggest that not all jobs are worth pursuing due to poor returns on investment [13][14]

Group 1 - The article highlights the shift in career choices among young graduates, with many opting for less traditional roles such as live streaming and delivery services due to a challenging job market [1][2][12] - The average salary for recent graduates is reported to be 6199 yuan, which contrasts sharply with the high spending observed in live streaming, where individuals can spend millions in a single session [1][2] - The narrative of "forgetting previous professions" reflects a broader societal trend where high-educated individuals are entering jobs perceived as less desirable, indicating a disconnection between education and employment opportunities [2][12] Group 2 - The article discusses the impact of university expansion since 1998, which has led to a significant increase in the number of graduates, creating a saturated job market where many struggle to find suitable employment [12][22] - The experiences of individuals like Qiao Yuan illustrate the harsh realities faced by graduates, including the pressure to secure stable jobs and the disillusionment with traditional career paths [6][10] - The concept of success and value in careers is being redefined, with a focus on survival, personal freedom, and the ability to accumulate value rather than adhering to traditional metrics of success [22][26]

Group 1 - The article highlights the shift in career choices among young graduates, with many opting for less traditional roles such as live streaming and delivery services due to a challenging job market [6][24][50] - The average salary for recent graduates is reported to be 6199 yuan, which contrasts sharply with the high spending observed in live streaming, where individuals can spend millions on virtual gifts [2][4] - There is a growing trend of highly educated individuals entering jobs perceived as less desirable, indicating a significant change in societal values and expectations regarding employment [6][49][50] Group 2 - The narrative of "graduation can be unsuccessful" is explored, suggesting that success and value in careers have been redefined, moving away from traditional metrics like prestigious degrees and stable jobs [39][49] - The article discusses the emotional and psychological impact on graduates who feel pressured to meet societal expectations, leading to a sense of disillusionment and the need to adapt to new realities [28][29][51] - The rise of short video content, such as the "I almost forgot what I used to do" series, reflects a cultural shift where individuals share their experiences in navigating the modern job landscape, gaining popularity and engagement in the process [48][52]

Core Viewpoint - The rising tuition fees in Chinese universities are becoming a significant burden for families, with increases ranging from 500 to 20,000 yuan per year by 2025, despite the devaluation of degrees in the job market [1][2][3]. Tuition Fee Changes - Numerous universities are increasing their tuition fees for 2025, with notable increases at institutions like Beijing Jiaotong University (20,000 yuan increase), Shanghai Visual Arts College (18,000 yuan increase), and Hebei University (15,000 yuan increase) [2]. - Private universities tend to have higher tuition fee increases compared to public universities, with some public universities showing more modest increases [3]. Historical Context - The trend of rising tuition fees is not new; many universities had already raised fees in 2023, with increases of up to 54% for certain programs at East China University of Science and Technology [5][8]. - The government had previously implemented a tuition fee cap in 2006, but its effectiveness has been limited, leading to a gradual increase in fees since 2014 due to rising operational costs [10][11]. Financial Implications for Families - The increase in tuition fees is causing financial strain on families, with data indicating that a 1,000 yuan increase in fees correlates with a 1.2 percentage point drop in rural enrollment rates [5]. - The average disposable income for urban residents in 2024 is 49,302 yuan, while for rural residents it is 19,605 yuan, highlighting the financial burden of tuition fees on families [5][8]. Strategies for Families - Families are encouraged to apply for government assistance programs, utilize student loans, and seek scholarships to mitigate the impact of rising tuition fees [13][14]. - Choosing public universities and evaluating the job market for specific majors can help families make more informed decisions regarding education investments [14]. Employment Market Trends - The increasing number of university graduates is leading to a decline in the value of higher education in the job market, with the premium for college-educated workers dropping significantly over the decades [16][18]. - Skills are becoming more critical than degrees in the labor market, emphasizing the need for practical abilities that can create value and solve problems [22].