As Chinese student in US, I agree with him:" 我们秉承的“有付出就有回报”的信条在美国这个科研大国受到了严峻的挑战,如果只是低头拉车而忘记了抬头看路,那么更多时候,付出的确没有回报" My experiences told me that, a lot of time, hard work is not paid back. Recently, I read a summary for a book titled "animal farm" required by a lot of 美国初中. Although the book was written to criticize old Russia, US gov. may not be different from what they criticized. There is a series show called "24". I have been surprised how Americans treat their national hero in that series. Although it is a show, somehow, it is based on American culture. Good to know. Understanding their culture and good communication weights more than hard work in many cases, at least to me. Good luck to Chinese students studying abroad.