“Sea Turtle” Chinese Students Turning into “Seaweed”? Cultural Shift Devalues Study Abroad?

Chinese students who study aboard for their higher education are often labeled “sea turtles” in China. This is due to the fact that these students will have the world on their back (in a good way) when they return to China. Nowadays, however, these students are being called “seaweed,” which is at the opposite end of the spectrum from sea turtle.

A degree from top western universities (like those list-toppers in the US and Great Britain) has newly decreased in value. Before, these foreign degrees practically guaranteed a job for students when they returned to China. However, there is little to no chance of finding a job now.

There is a belief that some companies fear studying abroad would shift the attitude of Chinese students. They wouldn’t be complacent. Instead, they might be too feisty. Simon Lance of Hays Recruitment believes being feisty might not be so bad, especially in today’s competitive international economy. He suggests companies strongly consider these candidates. They would have international skills and experience that could be an advantage. However, this cultural shift has yet to take place. There are still many new challenges for Chinese students studying abroad to face.

In the employment field, knowing another language is a huge advantage. Thus, studying abroad would automatically check off this credential. Exceptions have appeared these past few years. These days, Chinese universities provide a higher level of language education. Now, a job candidate will likely have a strong foreign language skills whether they study abroad or not.

Another reason is the financial situation (both before and after their education). Studying abroad has become too expensive, especially with the wages that are being offered in the Chinese job market. Ivy Wang studied in Loughborough University. When she returned to China, most jobs offered too low of a salary. She wouldn’t have been able to pay off her student loan and pay for her rent.

The once “sea turtles” who left the shore with such high hopes may be returning as “seaweed.” Chinese universities are now starting to compete against international universities. Are there still advantages to studying aboard? Does the Chinese job market even care?

Despite these doubts, there are still a high number of students going abroad.

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