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UPDATED: December 3, 2012 NO. 49 DECEMBER 6, 2012
Are Middle School Teachers With Ph.D.s Failures?
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(LI SHIGONG)

A graduate with a doctoral degree from China's prestigious Tsinghua University decided to give up the opportunity to continue scientific research at the university and to take a job as a math teacher at a middle school in Beijing. His advisor wrote him a long letter to express bewilderment and pity. Several days later, the graduate, named Xiao Yang, responded online, saying that, "I'm tired of doing scientific research."

The news spread quickly, sparking debate about the life of academic ambition. In eyes of most people, middle school teachers are common people, while scientific research in prestigious universities is regarded as a lofty profession. Thus, when Xiao announced his decision, some said it was a waste of talent. Some even accused him of having a lack of responsibility and devotion. Moreover, some say he has set a negative example for many hesitant young scholars who might be discouraged from scientific research. However, others believe that following one's true interest is the most important. The following are excerpts of some opinions:

Yu Wenjun (www.rednet.cn): The traditional view holds that a Ph.D.'s job is to do scientific research, and that such a talented person should at least stay at a university. If they take jobs in middle schools or elsewhere at a similar level, it will be seen as a waste. From this perspective, the shock expressed by Xiao's advisor is understandable. Indeed, it is not easy to bring up such a potential scientific researcher as Xiao.

However, if you try to understand the word "talent" from a broader vision, you'll find that this reaction reflects the advisor's narrow understanding and even prejudice. There are masters in every walk of life. Even butchers and barbers can produce their own masters, let alone middle school teachers.

No jobs are inferior to others. A scientific researcher should not be seen as superior to a middle school teacher. Whatever work you do, you can become an excellent professional in this sector. To do an excellent job as a middle school teacher is not an easy thing. Even teachers of average ability have nothing to feel ashamed about. These tens of thousands of common teachers have educated millions of young students in this country. Without their contributions, we couldn't have so many talented people in so many sectors.

It is a time when people are free to cherish their own values and interests. It is a progress for modern society. Xiao choice might be a loss to the scientific research community, but there is no harm in the end.

Yuan Guangkuo (Qingdao Financial Daily): Xiao has already achieved a lot in his area of scientific research.

Objectively speaking, based on his existing achievements and the momentum of his development, his departure for a middle school will surely be a loss to the scientific circle. However, his decision is not an impulse. Before he made this life-changing decision, Xiao had considered this question very carefully. He has the right to make his own choice.

Xiao said he simply did not enjoy the work of scientific research, and may have even hated it. If one is forced to do something he or she is not interested in at all, it is torture.

When he has lost interest in scientific research, we can't expect him to produce significant fruits in this area in the future, even if he has achieved a lot in the past. His achievements can only represent his past success, when he might be still passionate for the work. Now, since he has lost the appetite, we can hardly count on him.

Though people regret the loss of a potential scientist, the education circle might produce an excellent educator in the near future.

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