Beijing Normal University student Li Zhen came to be known as a "bothering money grubber" on the Internet after his co-students posted online comments against him. They say he is trying to save money for the down payment of an apartment in Beijing by spending his vacations in the dormitory, working part-time in two places and even recycling "books and other stuff", says an article in Huaxi Metropolis Daily. Excerpts:

It seems many students cannot understand why Li is trying to save money for an apartment at such a young age. But Li's actions show that he has a positive attitude toward life. Perhaps his co-students will appreciate his foresight when he reaches his goals before they achieve theirs.

They are irritated with him because they think the most important job of a student is to study. Therefore, they think Li has ignored his studies and his failure in some courses proves them right.

But they don't seem to realize that if university students engage in social matters they can acclimatize to reality earlier in life.

Li is working hard in his own way, which is better than what many other students do by falling in love, playing computer games and failing in some courses as a result.

It is true that money isn't everything. But it is also true that we cannot live without money. There is nothing wrong with rightful pursuit of money.

Li is trying to make money without breaking the law, which is welcome. In fact, he is an example for young adults who rely on their parents for money.

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(China Daily 07/15/2011 page9)