(translated from a Chinese conversation textbook)

Mary: Teacher, what is a “dagongmei”?

Teacher: A “dagongmei” is a young woman who comes from the countryside to the city to do part-time work.

Mary: Is their work always very hard?

Teacher: It is relatively hard, but compared to being in the countryside, it’s a bit more relaxed. Actually, they don’t mind a little bit of hardship. As long as they have happiness in their heart, it’s enough.

Mary: Are they happy?

Teacher: I think they are happy because they earn more than in the countryside, and living conditions are better than in the country. Because of this, there are more and more “dagongmei” in the city.

Mary: Do they return to the countryside?

Teacher: There are some that return. After working a few years in the city, learning about technology and earning money, they return to the countryside. There are some who open up shops by themselves, and become woman bosses.

Mary: So “dagongmei” become strong-willed women!

Teacher: Exactly.