<p>While we are by no means “Bluebloods”, I have to admit, as a result of the exposure that my childen have had to those higher up on the socio-economic ladder, a world of opportunities and experiences have been opened up to them, that simply weren’t the case for us parents and other extended members of the family. As I reflect back on my motives for making the choices of types of schools, and assisting them in exploring EC’s and such, the dynamics of the benefits from such an environment are crystallizing and are rather apparent now. From personal tastes in clothing, music, food, world view, academic interests, political, travel, etiquette, etc, my children seem to be much different than many of their middle class peers and on a different plane, from their African American ones. I jokenly refer to them as my Little Huxtables and my DS as an Obama (only in cultural diversity terms) in the making. </p>
<p>There are nuances that happen once you are repeatedly exposed to the values and tastes of those who have amassed and maintain wealth. Those who are from a lower socio-economic bracket and possess something of value or find favor from someone of influence in these circles will definitely have opportunities not common within their typical associations. Whether or not these attributes or values are desirable of those from the lower socio economic brackets is a matter of personal choice, but based on my personal experiences, I can understand much better why so many people here seek the real and perceived benefits from attending a prestigious college or university. If you are one who values or have been brought up in that environment, it is much easier to achieve and perpetuate that standard of living from within those ranks and institutions, as opposed from outside of them.</p>