With months to go before graduation, many Chinese university students start searching for jobs, fearing tough competition in the market. Adding to the pressure of the job hunt is the rapidly increasing cost of giving themselves an edge.

In 2003, college seniors spent 1.4 billion yuan (US$17.4 million) on the quest for employment, with the per capita cost coming to 6,800 yuan (US$821). In 2004, the cost per student soared to 10,000 yuan (US$1,208).

Giving attention to any detail that might put them ahead of competitors, the hopeful jobseekers spend lavishly on exquisitely designed résumés, new clothing, photo portfolios and skin and hair care. They take training courses in job-seeking techniques as well as other courses leading to certificates that might look good on a resume. And then there are the fees they must pay for tests, such as the civil service exam.

Most educators feel that the students are going too far. Although the proper package creates an impression and can help potential employers get to know the applicant, there comes a point where the cost effectiveness of such efforts declines sharply.

In 2002, 1.5 million students graduated from college. In 2003 that figure leapt to 2.1 million, and to 2.8 million in the following year. In 2005, 3.4 million seniors will be looking to launch their careers.

(China.org.cn by Guo Xiaohong, April 9, 2005)