I kind of understand why so many people these days marry and have children late, or even choose not to have any children at all.
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Putting the broader environment aside, as well as postgraduate and doctoral studies, let’s talk about the current situation of most undergraduates. I graduated from university at 22, and during the first three years after graduation I worked as an apprentice; my low salary was only enough to support myself. The retirement systems in most companies (not referring to state-owned or central-state enterprises) are not well-developed; many people are rehired after retirement, and it is difficult to get promoted to higher positions. This means that for those aged 25–28, it’s practically impossible to advance to middle management levels. During this period, there is also the opportunity to obtain certifications, so people are busy getting such certifications or improving their skills. There might be a small amount of savings, but it’s not enough to cover the costs of getting married. Age 30 is a significant milestone; those who manage to reach a middle-management position by then are fine, while those who can’t usually change jobs. It’s already great to save enough money to get married before the age of 30. 35 is a big hurdle; it’s not easy to change jobs after that age, and one doesn’t have the energy for it either. Be able to save enough for a down payment by the age of 35. If there are children, life is so busy – with having to prepare for exams and take care of them – that there’s really no time to study*. Unless the parents help out.
This is too realistic; I belong to the latter group
That’s indeed the case, and housing prices will continue to rise as we move closer to graduation
The time difference is crucial. Some people in certain age groups arrive at a time when salaries are low and housing prices are also low; it’s easier for them to buy a house early on. Those who start later have relatively higher salaries after graduation, and they have more financial savings to draw on, so they’re in a better position. The problem arises when they graduate with low incomes and little savings, only to find that housing prices have risen significantly after a few years
After graduation, for work—for marriage—for a house—for children—for money
If the environment and conditions for growing crops on arable land are poor – such as difficulties in obtaining fertilizers, high prices for pesticides, and difficulty in renting agricultural machinery – and if there is no guarantee regarding crop prices, who would be willing to plant seeds and raise seedlings?