“Advance Your Career, Own Your Future!” On the afternoon of March 11, the grand final for Employment Track (Undergraduate Category) of the 3rd National College Student Career Planning Competition was held at the Zhuoyu Auditorium on the main campus of CUEB. After multiple rounds of intense competition, 16 outstanding students from 15 universities across Beijing advanced to the final. Nie Jiabao, a 2023 undergraduate from the School of Culture and Communication at CUEB, represented the university in the competition.

Attendees included Lu Xinyi, Deputy Division Director of the Career Education Division, Student Services and Quality Development Center of the Ministry of Education; Tang Yong, Employment Guidance and Service Division, Department of Student Affairs of the Ministry of Education; Yang Diya, Deputy Division Director of the University Student Affairs Division, Beijing Municipal Education Commission, along with Wu Ying, Level I Division Rank Official of the same division; Kuang Xiaozhen, Director of the Beijing University Student Employment and Entrepreneurship Guidance Center; Zhu Kuang, Deputy Director of the Center; Ouyang Qin, Deputy Party Secretary of CUEB. Ouyang Qin delivered a speech, encouraging students to make full use of youth and opportunities of the era to dedicate themselves to where the motherland and the people need them most, achieve remarkable accomplishments, and write glorious chapters for the times.

In the final, contestants competed in three consecutive sessions: keynote presentation, comprehensive interview, and the “Surprise Offer” challenge. Drawing on their application portfolios, they clearly elaborated on their career intentions and demonstrated their preparedness for future employment. When faced with workplace questions raised by the judges, they responded calmly with targeted solutions. Based on their overall performance, the judges extended tentative job offers on site, along with professional comments and guidance, helping students clarify their career paths and enhance job-hunting capabilities.

Competition Highlights

Student Testimonials

Wang Jiankun, a contestant from Peking University, shared, “My greatest gain from participating in this career planning competition is being ‘seen’ and ‘inspired.’ Standing on stage to tell my own story, I connected the dots of my past three years for the first time. Those scattered fragments formed a clear trajectory through this competition. The judges’ questions also revealed areas where I need deeper reflection, which will continue to drive me forward—reminding me that on the path to becoming a diplomat, I must not only go far but also think deeply and stay grounded. I am now more certain than ever that from Peking University to the Middle East, becoming a young diplomat deeply rooted in the region is the answer I want to dedicate my life to. I am grateful to the competition for giving me the opportunity to share this journey from Peking University to the Middle East, and I sincerely thank all the judges for their recognition and encouragement.”

Nie Jiabao, a contestant from CUEB, expressed: “The process of participating in this career planning competition has been an immensely important moment of reflection and affirmation for me on my path as a ‘digital podcast strategist.’ The preparation process was like a comprehensive career ‘checkup’. Through systematic industry research, I gained a deep understanding of the professional standards and development logic of the podcasting field, and systematically mapped out my own capabilities, transforming my interests into clear strengths and actionable plans. This competition affirmed my efforts to integrate my interests and academic background into my career exploration. Moving forward, I will continue to learn and refine my skills in the field of digital content creation, striving to grow from an explorer into a creator of value.”

Zhang Hongming, a contestant from Beijing Union University, shared: “As a student with hearing impairment, I deeply appreciated the thoughtful support provided by the organizing committee, which allowed me to participate with ease. This competition has further clarified my career direction and strengthened my commitment to serving the cause of accessibility through technology. Guided by the national strategies for strengthening education, science and technology, and talent development, I will take this competition as a new starting point, using my professional skills to build bridges of communication for the silent community, and fulfilling my responsibilities as a young person through concrete actions.”

Li Zichi, a high school student from Chaoyang School Affiliated to Northeast Normal University who attended the competition as an observer, remarked: “As a first-year high school student, I feel truly honored to have the opportunity to witness the competition live. Watching the outstanding performances made me reflect on my own future career. For now, I need to study hard, stay true to my aspirations, clarify my goals, develop a clear academic and career plan with a firm professional direction, continuously improve my overall capabilities, and embrace a bright future.”

It is reported that since its launch in October 2025, the competition has garnered widespread attention. Universities across Beijing promoted the event through various channels, attracting a total of 242,000 students to register—a 44% increase compared to the previous edition. This reflects that career planning awareness and the career development competencies of university students in Beijing have been continuously enhanced.

May all students set sail with dreams and row with aspirations, chart a clear course, and strive forward with determination. With wisdom and responsibility, may you realize the value of your life and radiate the brilliance of youth in serving the nation and contributing to society.

Translated by Si Wen; Proofread by Zhao Shuyi and Fan Yibo; Reviewed by Li Shuangyan