China's competitive job market is beginning to affect the lives of more and more university students. In a hope to add valuable experience to their resumes, many students are spending less time on their studies and more time on social activities. Although the nation's educators are deeply concerned, the public is not so sure that this is a harmful trend.

A recent online poll conducted by China Youth Daily has found that a large majority of respondents-- nearly 67 percent -- would encourage students to step out of the ivory towers in favor of more social experience. They believe that practical skills are greatly needed in today's society.

However, some respondents are more cautious, voicing a concern that the strategy is short sighted in its focus on instant profits.

The China Youth Daily report cites an article written by the president of Beijing's Remin University, Ji Baocheng, who warns that the university's basic principles are facing challenges as more students and even teachers are tempted by commercial interests outside the campus.

A possible solution to the dilemma is offered by an official from Huazhong University of Science and Technology, who says students should allocate their study time according to a career development plan. This way, theoretical knowledge and practical skills are both achieved and are not in opposition to each other.