The Crumbling Chinese Dream: Barriers for the Working Class

China has witnessed extraordinary economic transformation since the 1980s, with over 800 million individuals escaping poverty and the middle class swelling to approximately 400 million. This success was built on the back of hard work and education, allowing many villagers to migrate to urban areas and pursue higher education. However, as economic growth falters, the dream of a prosperous future is increasingly out of reach, especially for the working class.

For young professionals like Boris Gao, who come from humble beginnings, the hope that education will yield upward mobility is diminishing. After his parents were displaced from their stable factory jobs, Gao faced financial hurdles throughout his education. Despite his academic achievements and fierce determination, he has struggled to secure employment since graduating. Instances of unpaid internships and biases based on his family's background reveal a troubling trend: in the eyes of some employers, hard work and perseverance are not enough.

For Gao, failures during his job search have underscored a bitter truth—the “Chinese Dream” is fading for many, creating a deep sense of frustration among a new generation eager to succeed through education and effort. As wage stagnation and disappearing job prospects persist, rising disillusionment poses a significant challenge for both individuals and the broader social fabric of China.

Through Boris Gao’s story, it is clear that a systemic shift is necessary to restore faith in the promises of growth, education, and social mobility in China.