Graduates struggle to gain foothold in capital

The desperate episode in December ended with a sudden call from an agent who said a landlord had just posted a room online. Chang didn’t hesitate for a second before accepting the offer.

“I am proud to say I never complained to my parents, even in the darkest moments,” she said. “I take the responsibility for my decision to stay in Beijing, and honestly, my family is unable to lend a helping hand as they’re miles away.”

Her financial prospects have now improved, with a year’s hard work at her foreign-funded employer leading to a pay rise.

“Despite all the hardship, I am feeling upbeat now,” Chang said. “Pessimism doesn’t lead to a solution. I will be working hard to tackle any issues standing in my way.”

24, new media editor for Caijing.com

· Rents one room (11 sq m) in a three-bedroom apartment in Chaoyang district with 3,100 yuan a month

· Earns 7,000 yuan a month

Zhang Yuedong,