Fu Jiani, who is pursuing a master's degree in social justice at NYU Shanghai, says the event reaffirmed her intention to have a career in healthcare and education after graduation.

"The event has helped to allay my fears of picking an impact-oriented career and showed me how to find my passion," says Fu, also a social worker that helps children with special needs.

According to the 2018 graduate employment report by NYU Shanghai, a number of graduates had, for the first time, chosen to work at NGOs or international organizations, indicating a growing interest in impact-oriented careers. In addition, universities are increasingly offering programs and courses specifically designed to help students enter such sectors.

Many universities today, such as the Beijing Foreign Studies University and the Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, also offer students opportunities to gain work experience in international organizations.

"It is important to be kind and make a positive impact on the lives of others through a career you love. This is the basic approach to social responsibility," says Bai.

Contact the writer at caochen@chinadaily.com.cn