<p>Like the other high school kids in this thread, I feel compelled to give my two bit.</p>
<p>As a first generation Asian immigrant and a senior in high school, I know exactly what Dr.Horse means by excessive parental pressures. I’m not big on predestination but I do agree with Dr.Horse in that talented and capable people always end up where they should be and get what they deserve. If someone is truly meant to go to Harvard, they will go to Harvard and they will get in relatively easily, doing their 120%. Working your 200% to get into these top schools is just trying to get to a place you don’t deserve.</p>
<p>I, and many of my friends, have never been pressured at home to attend the top schools. In fact, my high school is notorious for having so many students turn down Harvard and MIT to go to in-state schools. I believe the extent of parental interference is, like SlitheyTove says, to widen their kid’s horizon. I would have never discovered some of my passions if my parents did not force me to try it, and I am truly grateful for that.</p>