Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the emerging trend of "本科生回炉" (undergraduate students returning to vocational schools) in China, highlighting the phenomenon of "本升专" (undergraduate to vocational) as a response to the challenging job market and the mismatch between academic qualifications and job requirements [3][4]. Group 1: Enrollment Trends - Zhengzhou Railway Vocational and Technical College has started enrolling undergraduate students for vocational programs, with plans to increase the number of undergraduate admissions from 30 in 2022 to 135 in 2023 [4]. - Other vocational schools, such as Guangdong Lingnan Vocational Technical College and Shandong Qingdao Technician College, have also introduced programs specifically for undergraduates seeking practical skills [4]. Group 2: Employment Challenges - A report by Zhilian Recruitment indicates that undergraduates face difficulties in the job market, often finding themselves competing with master's and doctoral graduates for high-level positions, while lacking the practical skills required for technical jobs [4]. - The increasing pressure to secure stable employment has led many undergraduates to consider vocational training as a viable alternative to enhance their employability [4]. Group 3: Case Studies - The article features interviews with three undergraduates who returned to vocational schools, each motivated by different factors such as job security, interest in practical skills, and the desire to combat employment anxiety associated with age [4][17]. - One case study highlights a student named Liu Ming, who transitioned from a white-collar job to a blue-collar position in an automotive factory after enrolling in a vocational program that promised job placement [7][8]. Group 4: Educational Structure and Outcomes - The concept of "订单班" (order classes) is introduced, where vocational schools collaborate with companies to tailor training programs that meet specific industry needs, ensuring students have job placements upon graduation [13][14]. - However, some students express dissatisfaction with the quality of education and the actual job placements, revealing a gap between the promised outcomes and the reality of their experiences [15][16]. Group 5: Alternative Paths - The article also discusses individuals like "婉辞," who chose to study a niche skill (woodwind instrument repair) abroad, emphasizing the importance of pursuing interests that align with market demands and personal fulfillment [30][31]. - This highlights a broader trend where individuals seek specialized skills that are less likely to be outsourced or automated, thus providing a sense of job security in the long term [34].