More graduates opt for blue-collar life

A technical knockout

Like Liu, interest and a sense of belonging led Zhou Hao to his career after he made headlines by dropping out of Peking University, one of China's most prestigious schools, in Beijing.

In 2011, he quit the elite university, where he was studying life sciences, and transferred to the Beijing Industrial Technician College to learn computer numerical control－the programming and use of automated machinery.

"Compared with, say, Germany, China lacks highly educated skilled workers. I have loved dismantling machinery and installing home appliances since I was a child, so I decided to go with my interests," he told China Youth Daily in 2014.

According to the newspaper's report, Zhou, now 31, won admission to the technical college in 2011, but he encountered opposition from his parents and other relatives.

"I tend to care about other people's opinions, but doing something I don't like would ruin my life. When I am living a wonderful life, no one will doubt my choice," he was quoted as saying.

In 2014, Zhou won first prize in the CNC Machine Tool Assembly and Maintenance Competition, a national skills contest. He became a lecturer at the technical college, and in 2018 he won first prize in a national contest for teachers.

"Every trade has its master. Everyone needs to work in a position that suits and interests them. People who find their true position will enjoy life more," Zhou was quoted as saying in the China Youth Daily story.