Core Viewpoint - The controversy surrounding Sam's Club's introduction of popular snack brands has led to significant backlash from its members, who feel that the exclusivity and premium nature of the membership have been compromised [2][3][5]. Group 1: Consumer Sentiment - Members expressed dissatisfaction with the introduction of common brands like Haoliyou and Weilong, leading to a surge in negative reviews and calls for membership cancellations [2] - The core issue is not the quality of the products, as they meet Sam's "strict selection" standards, but rather the perceived dilution of brand exclusivity and identity among middle-class consumers [2][3] - The introduction of these brands has triggered feelings of relative deprivation among members, who feel that their premium membership no longer offers unique products [2][3] Group 2: Market Strategy - Sam's Club's strategy to introduce local brands is part of a broader plan to reduce reliance on imports and cut logistics costs, rather than a personal decision by management [3][4] - The company's business model relies on a membership system that emphasizes strict selection, large packaging, low margins, and high turnover, differentiating it from traditional supermarkets [4] - The current crisis highlights the need for Sam's Club to balance large-scale procurement with maintaining a sense of exclusivity and to enhance transparency in its supply chain [5] Group 3: Brand Perception and Identity - The backlash against the introduction of common brands reflects a deeper concern about the erosion of social status and identity among consumers, as they associate product scarcity with their social standing [3] - The incident has sparked conspiracy theories regarding management changes and strategic shifts, indicating a strong emotional investment from members in the brand's identity [3] - The need for Sam's Club to communicate effectively with Chinese consumers about trust and quality is emphasized, as the market is sensitive to issues of food safety and brand integrity [5]

以下文章来源于表外表里 ，作者洞见数据研究院 表外表里 . 洞见数据研究院 从"强制撤销国际学生签证"，到"欢迎中国留学生"，美国上演了7天极限变脸。 莉莉的朋友们松了一口气，她却订了回国的机票，等收拾完行李，就告别这个曾经做梦都想留下来的地 方。 留美10年，一路本硕博连读的大雄，已经抢先莉莉一步登上飞机。望着窗外的景物逐渐缩小，直至变成一 幅遥远的背景图，他心里没有不舍，反而感到了解脱。 大雄不是第一个走的，他身边的留子，有一半已经"逃离美国"。 据美国国务院数据，截至今年3月，中国学生签证数量同比大跌42.5%，一年之内几乎腰斩；把时间拉长 看，在美中国留学生数量，已跌回10年前的水平。 这些消失的数字里，有随着中产家庭滑落而破碎的"留美梦"，也有对美国祛魅的大雄们，现在又多了一群人 ——被突然撤销身份的冤种们。 过去踏上美利坚，等于迈入了藤校起步、机会遍地，轻松过上自由、优越生活的"应许之地"。现在一切都变 了，留学生们找不到工作，作为边缘人活在被歧视、被驱逐的阴影里。 虽然川普改口了，但在理想与现实中挣扎的留子，却想回国了。 01 人均百万，圆一个"美国梦" 英硕毕业后，想离家更近的余阳申请到港澳深 ...

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the drastic changes in the perception and reality of studying in the United States for Chinese students, highlighting a significant decline in student visa numbers and the challenges faced by those who remain [3][8][10]. Group 1: Visa and Enrollment Trends - As of March this year, the number of Chinese student visas has plummeted by 42.5% year-on-year, returning to levels seen a decade ago [8]. - Many Chinese students are leaving the U.S., with reports indicating that half of a group of students have already "escaped" [7]. Group 2: Financial Burden of Studying in the U.S. - The average cost of studying in the U.S. is around 1 million CNY, with tuition fees for public universities ranging from 40,000 to 62,000 USD per year and private universities costing between 54,000 to 85,000 USD [30][76]. - The total cost for a four-year undergraduate program can reach between 1.04 million to 2.21 million CNY [30]. Group 3: Employment Challenges - Chinese students face significant difficulties in securing employment, with many unable to find jobs and living under the threat of discrimination and expulsion [10][66]. - The probability of obtaining an H-1B visa is only 1 in 3, with Chinese applicants making up just 11.7% of successful applicants, compared to 72.3% for Indian applicants [64]. Group 4: Changing Perceptions of the American Dream - The article reflects on how the American Dream has become less attainable, with many students feeling disillusioned as opportunities diminish and costs rise [74][77]. - The narrative of the U.S. as a land of opportunity is contrasted with the current reality where many students struggle to find jobs and face increasing financial pressures [10][75].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the drastic changes in the perception and reality of studying in the United States for Chinese students, highlighting a significant decline in student visa numbers and the challenges faced by those who remain in the U.S. [4][8][41] Group 1: Visa and Enrollment Trends - As of March this year, the number of Chinese student visas has plummeted by 42.5% year-on-year, returning to levels seen a decade ago [4]. - Many Chinese students are choosing to leave the U.S., with reports indicating that half of a group of students have already "escaped" [4][41]. Group 2: Changing Perceptions of the American Dream - The once-promising image of the U.S. as a land of opportunity for students has shifted, with many now feeling marginalized and facing discrimination [8][41]. - The article reflects on the generational differences in perceptions of the U.S., with older generations still holding onto the "American Dream" while younger students are more skeptical [11][41]. Group 3: Financial Burden of Studying in the U.S. - The average cost of studying in the U.S. for Chinese students is around 1 million CNY, with expenses including tuition, living costs, and other fees [17][18]. - The financial strain is exacerbated by the increasing difficulty in securing stable employment post-graduation, leading to a sense of hopelessness among many students [41]. Group 4: Employment Challenges - The job market for international students has become increasingly competitive, with many facing difficulties in obtaining work visas and job offers [35][38]. - The approval rate for H-1B visas for Chinese applicants is significantly lower compared to Indian applicants, creating additional barriers for Chinese graduates [38]. Group 5: Cultural and Social Integration Issues - Many Chinese students report feeling isolated and struggling to integrate into American society, facing both language barriers and cultural differences [24][27]. - Experiences of discrimination and exclusion are common, with students feeling that they are not seen as equals by their peers [26][39].