<p>I know of many who have told me that they wished their parents had put them thru formal training in music or compelled them to study foreign languages instead of allowing them to opt out. Of course, as you rightly said, there are more opposite stories, of parental control and force. As a clinical psychologist I hear deeply personal stories all day and hope I tread carefully myself as a parent. I do not see any passion in my son, perhaps I am trying to urge him to take a variety of courses so he may have a better chance to find something he resonates to and I fear the ABET requirements might prevent his finding his passion. Please note the decision will be his. I am writing here to make sure, by soliciting a variety of views, that I have not overlooked something vital.</p>