The appeal of the American dream is diminishing, which is reflected in a shift in the direction of 'brain drain' as Chinese scientists return to their homeland. The article provides an example of a meeting of former students who studied together at prestigious Chinese universities.
Several decades ago, in the early 2000s, the most talented students studying at renowned Chinese institutions such as Tsinghua and Fudan in fields like physics, chemistry, and engineering, received offers to continue their studies in the United States. At that time, the American dream was highly attractive, and China did not yet possess its current power. Many went to the US, while some remained in their home country.
Recently, an informal gathering of these individuals took place in Beijing during a citizens' conference. Participants included those who became professors, specialists, or executives of major corporations in the US, and whose children attended prestigious schools and universities. In other words, they achieved the American dream.
However, this meeting revealed an unexpected picture to them: the income, opportunities, and social status of former classmates who remained in China were, in many cases, higher than their own. They hosted guests in expensive hotels, provided cars with drivers, and spoke about leading large teams.
It was once believed that the 'best' left for the US, while the less capable remained at home. However, it was precisely those who stayed who participated in shaping China's current strength.
According to the publicist, this is not just the fate of a couple of dozen people. For decades, 'brain drain' was considered a great achievement for the US: young and the most capable people from around the world came to America to strengthen its scientific, technological, and economic superiority. Every young scientist was viewed as a future loyal citizen and a valuable asset.
Now, the situation is changing. A Chinese student is increasingly viewed not as a future scientist but as a potential technological threat.
According to data from the U.S. Center for Immigration Studies, the number of visas issued to students from China and India in the first half of 2025 has decreased. In some circles, this is seen as a success for American students and national security.
Nevertheless, it is reported that foreign students contribute $55 billion annually to the US economy and provide about 400,000 jobs. The reduction in admissions led to a loss of $1.1 billion and 23,000 jobs in just one year. Thus, a process previously considered an economic and political success is now interpreted as a threat.
The author also quotes a Chinese professor working at the University of Rochester. He himself achieved success in America, owns a nice home, and buys things considering himself a US patriot. But now he is dissatisfied with the growing skepticism towards Chinese scientists and students.
Chinese students coming to study in the US undergo lengthy interrogations at the border. Even scientists who returned to China after working in America are questioned about where they were, whom they met, what lectures they gave, and what research they discussed.
Currently, not all emigrated scientists achieve the same level of success. Some attribute their failure to the Chinese government or their home country, expressing strong political views. This complicates the lives of Chinese people who have succeeded in the US.
Thus, the 'brain drain,' which once strengthened America's power, may begin to move in reverse. The South China Morning Post regularly reports on the return of prominent Chinese scientists and engineers who worked in the US in recent years. Now, they are choosing opportunities in China rather than the American dream.
