Haha, thanks for sharing. I do think it's kind of odd that that woman would do something like that. You don't generally approach random people and boast about t

Haha, thanks for sharing. I do think it's kind of odd that that woman would do something like that. You don't generally approach random people and boast about the accomplishments of your children. In my mom's case, she socializes at church and a line dancing group, so no doubt they're always talking about their kids. I do think you've picked up on something with the whole social status angle, but I can't say I have a good understanding of it. Chinese moms are deeply invested in their children's education, and no doubt they judge themselves (and each other) by how much their children have achieved. The sad thing is that some of those women may actually have been unimpressed by a Berkeley grad. You no doubt are aware of the tutoring centers that dot the Valley, catering to Asian students and their demanding parental units. Besides AP and SAT prep, some of these places also offer "college counseling" that runs many thousands of dollars over several years. My sister, who is quite a bit younger than me, is on the verge of applying to college. Last time I was at home, my parents had collected a pile of brochures from these tutoring places, which advertise successful applications to Stanford, UofC, UPenn, and the Ivy League. The UCs are an afterthought. It's all about the exclusive brand names, if you will. I'm just thankful I never had to deal with any of this madness.