And now, it's time for our special series, "Chinese Terminology". We help explain the magnitude of China's reform and opening up. Today, our Jeff Moody looks at the term Hai gui or "sea turtles".

Sea turtles are born on sandy beaches, and only make their way to the ocean after they hatch. And that's the term used to describe some of China's brightest overseas talents, who are turning down the opportunities abroad to make a splash back home.

"Hai gui", which means "overseas returnee", has the same pronunciation as "sea turtle" in Chinese. Four decades ago, China carried out overseas study programs alongside its reform and opening-up process. The country experienced steady economic growth in the late 90s, and a large number of overseas Chinese students decided to head home to heed the calling. They brought back advanced skills and expertise, making their mark in industries including energy and agriculture. At that time, "sea turtles" were a rarity and their overseas experience helped them to hold senior positions. Today's sea turtles face much tougher competition. As China's middle class has grown richer, it's become a common thing for students to go abroad to study. Statistics show the number of "sea turtles" reached a new height last year, exceeding 480-thousand. But these returnees, of course, are finding new ways to stay competitive.