Chinese students who have studied in the UK say the professional and personal benefits have been “profound”, new research has shown. The findings contradict reports that returnees – nicknamed “sea turtles” – are finding it increasingly hard to reintegrate into the competitive Chinese job market.
Academics from the universities of Birmingham and Nottingham, supported by the British Council, canvassed 652 former university students who had retuned to work in China after time in the UK – some less than six months ago, others up to 27 years.
They found that despite “intense intercultural, social and educational challenges”, 94% were satisfied with their overall study experience in the UK and 83% found coming home a happy experience.
94% were satisfied with their overall study experience and 83% found coming home a happy experience
Furthermore, 84% felt that they were able to take advantage of their overseas experience at work.
Dr Michele Schweisfurth from the University of Birmingham said: “Our returnees enjoyed a more confident professional identity at work, particularly in terms of their improved English language skills and their ability to deal with change and work under pressure.
“Also, from a relationship perspective, the vast majority of those surveyed felt that they had accepted the diversity of the world and, as a result, had become more flexible and open-minded than they were previously, with increased tolerance for different ideas and behaviour.”
The news will surprise some, given the growing competition for jobs as the Chinese economy cools down. Some six million students pour out of Chinese universities every year, while a greater number who study abroad are choosing to return as Western job markets struggle. In 2011 alone 186,200 returned, nearly 40% more than that in the previous year.
The report, however, shows that after initial hurdles most sea turtles settled back in and found their overseas experience was valued. 93% said the international outlook and awareness they had gained in the UK was “significant to their work”, with 82% feeling the experience made them more comfortable about working in teams.
Seventy-three per cent felt that their study abroad experience enhanced their appreciation of their own culture rather than diluting it.
Dr Qing Gu, associate professor at the University of Nottingham, explained: “Despite the challenges and tensions that some had experienced in pursuit of a new career and a new social life immediately upon return, our research found that the large majority of the Chinese students fit back into their daily personal and professional lives, with little adjustment required.”
