Tilted Forum Project Discussion Community - What privileges do you have?

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Dammitall

01-18-2008 12:58 PM

What privileges do you have?

Quote:

Originally Posted by Will Barratt, Meagan Cahill, Angie Carlen, Minnette Huck, Drew Lurker, Stacy Ploskonka

This meme is from "What Privileges Do You Have?", based on an exercise about class and privilege developed by Will Barratt, Meagan Cahill, Angie Carlen, Minnette Huck, Drew Lurker, Stacy Ploskonka at Illinois State University. If you participate in this blog game, they ask that you PLEASE acknowledge their copyright.

Don't know how you all feel about memes in here, but I found this to be among the more interesting that I've seen.

Father went to college?
Yes.

Father finished college?
Yes.

Mother went to college?
Yes.

Mother finished college?
Yes.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
Yes.

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
Yes.

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
Possibly, I've never counted.

Were read children's books by a parent?
Yes.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Yes.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
Yes.

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
Depends what I'm wearing, and women can be argued either way, but as far as young, white professionals are concerned, yes.

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
No.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
Yes.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
Yes.

Went to a private high school?
No, but it was small—and elitist—enough to feel like a private high school.

Went to summer camp?
Yes.

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
If you count weekend art lessons, yes.

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
Yes.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
Had a number of hand-me-downs from my sister, but for the most part, yes.

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
No, but they gave my sister their minivan when her second child was born.

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
My father paints copies of Chagalls and guests have remarked on more than one occasion at being impressed that we own them, thinking they were originals. But yes, there is original art there as well.

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Yes.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
I believe so.

You had your own room as a child?
Yes.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
No. I won a phone for free once but my parents didn't believe I should have it hooked up to a line in my bedroom.

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
No, I didn't want to.

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
No.

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
No.

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
Yes.

Went on a cruise with your family?
No, my parents didn't believe in cruises but we did do a lot of traveling.

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
Yes.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
Very much so.

Jinn	01-18-2008 01:26 PM

Father went to college?
No

Father finished college?
No

Mother went to college?
Yes.

Mother finished college?
Yes.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
No

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
Yes.

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
Possibly, I've never counted.

Were read children's books by a parent?
Yes.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Yes.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
Yes.

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
Yes (This is my biggest privilege)

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
No

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
Yes.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
Yes.

Went to a private high school?
No

Went to summer camp?
No

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
No

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
Yes.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
Yes absolutely, my mother spent way too much on my clothes, in retrospect. JNCOS? seriously? wtf

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
Yes

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
Yes

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Yes.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
I believe so.

You had your own room as a child?
Yes.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
No

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
No, I didn't want to.

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
Yes

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
No.

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
At 16, yes.

Went on a cruise with your family?
No

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
Yes.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
Very much so.

---

This is actually a very good question, and a pretty good demonstrator of the "unearned privilege" that people talk about. Two years ago, before meeting my current girlfriend, I would've dismissed this list as a pandering excuse for poor people and women to complain about how bad their lives were. Now I see it as a very serious indictment of privilege in America.

And actually, despite my answers being nearly identical to yours, spinelust, I must admit that because of my "media" answer, and the fact that I'm a straight white male, my 'unearned privilege' is much greater than yours. I've become more and more aware of how media really shapes 'privilege.' I don't think these questions are all equal, and certain answers weight much more strongly on the end result.

In college I remember doing a similar exercise, but you all lined up and stepped back if No, forward if Yes. It was really sobering at the end to see the physical distance between members of the same class, and this was in a college. Random people off the street would've been far more disparate.

Willravel

01-18-2008 01:36 PM

Father went to college?
Yes. 

Father finished college?
Yes.And Postgrad. Soon, PhD.

Mother went to college?
Yes.

Mother finished college?
Yes.And Postgrad. And PhD.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
Yes. Uncle was a professor and is now administration. 

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
Yes. Same. 

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Were read children's books by a parent?
Yes.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Yes.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
Yes.

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
No. I'm usually equitable to a villain. 

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
Yes.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
No.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
No.

Went to a private high school?
No.

Went to summer camp?
No.

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
Yes.

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
Yes.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
No.

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
No.

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
Yes.

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Yes.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
Yes.

You had your own room as a child?
Sometimes.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
Yes, but I wired it in myself and it was the home line.

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
Yes. 1556 = booyah

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
Yes, I bought one at a yard sale.

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
No.

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
Yes.

Went on a cruise with your family?
No. But I went on one with my friends.

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
Yes.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
No. I was totally aware because my dad would *remind* me if I turned on the heat.

Fotzlid

01-18-2008 03:04 PM

Father went to college?
No

Father finished college?
No

Mother went to college?
No

Mother finished college?
No

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
No

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
No

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
No

Were read children's books by a parent?
No

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Yes.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
No

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
not sure so i'll go with Yes

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
No.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
No

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
No

Went to a private high school?
No

Went to summer camp?
No

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
No

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
Yes, the few times we went on vacation.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
Yes.

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
No

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
Yes, one painting

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Yes.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
Yes

You had your own room as a child?
Yes.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
No.

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
No, I didn't want to.

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
No.

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
No.

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
No

Went on a cruise with your family?
No

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
No. public schools did though.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
Yes

.............

so what does this mean? i grew up as part of the downtrodden class?

telekinetic

01-18-2008 03:30 PM

Father went to college?
Yes.

Father finished college?
No

Mother went to college?
Yes.

Mother finished college?
Yes.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
Yes.

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
Yes.

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
Probably pretty close

Were read children's books by a parent?
Yes.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Yes.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
Yes.

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
Yep...this question seems kind of loaded towards specific demographics, though.

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
When I was 11, I had a discover card on my parents account.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
A trust fund paid for one semester, the rest were scholarships and loans

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
Not even close

Went to a private high school?
Very private...home schooled.

Went to summer camp?
Yes.

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
Yep.

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
Lots of camping, but motels, too.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
Some hand-me-downs that I liked a lot, but primarily new (cheap, but new)

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
Nope. Bought my own car.

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
Only by the household artists.

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Yes.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
They hadn't paid it off, but had a mortgage--they weren't renting.

You had your own room as a child?
Yes.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
Yep, with two lines. Yay phone company dad!

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
Nope, could have though, just didn't need to. 1540 with no studying.

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
I didn't have my own TV until after I got married.

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
Nope.

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
Grandparents were on east coast, I was in southwest...200,000 frequent flier miles by the time I was 10.

Went on a cruise with your family?
No cruises...lots of road trips to the beach.

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
Nope.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
Yes, many

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
I had a rough idea, although, being Arizona, it was the summer that we monitored, not the winter.

Ustwo

01-18-2008 03:42 PM

:lol:

Apparently some college professors want to give people something to feel guilty about.

And they wanted to create their own meme.

Clever.

I would say privilege must be the new buzz word for 'middle class with involved parents'.

I'd rather see one that was a 'were you spoiled' You could answer yes to all those questions and still had to work your ass off in school and work.

TotalMILF

01-18-2008 03:50 PM

Father went to college?
Yes

Father finished college?
Yes, he has his JD

Mother went to college?
Yes.

Mother finished college?
Yes.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
Father, uncle and aunt are all attorneys

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
Yes.

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
Yes

Were read children's books by a parent?
Yes. Among other things my dad read the entire Lord of the Rings trilogy to us.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Yes.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
Yes.

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
Sure

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
No.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
Yes.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
Yes, before I got married! :p

Went to a private high school?
No

Went to summer camp?
Yes - band camp, baby!

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
Never needed one

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
Yes.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
yes

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
Yes

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
Yes

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Yes.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
Yes

You had your own room as a child?
Yes.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
Yes

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
Yes

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
Yes

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
lol, no

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
Yes.

Went on a cruise with your family?
No

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
Yes.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
Yes
.........................

Yup, I was definitely born with a silver spoon in my mouth. I turned out alright, but my brothers have never had to work for a single thing their whole lives and it shows. They are spoiled rotten and my parents keep throwing money at them. One brother is 22, lives at home and does NOTHING. He just started taking a class at a local community college but I bet he'll drop out (he always does). Of course he doesn't work. My parents pay for his cell phone, xbox live account, car insurance, gas, and anything else he asks for. My other brother is still in college but he is also spoiled. My parents don't seem to realize that they are setting them both up for failure. *sigh*

jewels

01-18-2008 04:42 PM

Father went to college?
Yes.

Father finished college?
No.

Mother went to college?
No.

Mother finished college?
No.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
No.

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
Yes.

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Were read children's books by a parent?
Yes.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Yes.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
Yes.

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
Not necessarily.

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
No.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
No.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
No.

Went to a private high school?
Yes.

Went to summer camp?
Yes, one year only.

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
No

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
Yes.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
Yes.

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
No, they never bought me a car.

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
No, but mom would buy coffee-table art books and cut, mat, frame and hang the great masters.

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Yes.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
Yes.

You had your own room as a child?
Yes.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
For a month. Brother and I shared our own line and you can imagine what he did from his line while I was on the phone.

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
No.

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
No.

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
No.

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
Yes.

Went on a cruise with your family?
No.

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
Yes.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
Yes..

Charlatan

01-18-2008 04:50 PM

Father went to college? -- No (no high school either)

Father finished college? -- No.

Mother went to college? -- No (but finished grade nine)

Mother finished college? -- No.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor? -- not even close.

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers? Yes.

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home? -- Yes.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home? -- No.

Were read children's books by a parent? -- Yes.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18? -- No.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18? -- No.

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively? -- Yes.

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18? -- No.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs? -- No.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs? -- No.

Went to a private high school? -- Public.

Went to summer camp? -- once

Had a private tutor before you turned 18? -- Didn't need one.

Family vacations involved staying at hotels? -- Never

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18? -- All? No. Most? Yes.

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them? - No. I worked to buy my own. No help.

There was original art in your house when you were a child? -- Just mine.

You and your family lived in a single-family house? -- No. Apartment.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home? -- Hahaha....

You had your own room as a child? -- Yes.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18? Yes. But not a separate line.

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course? -- No. Don't do these in Canada.

Had your own TV in your room in high school? -- Yes.

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college? -- No.

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16? -- No.

Went on a cruise with your family? -- No. (but I watched the Love Boat, does that count?)

Went on more than one cruise with your family? -- No.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up? No. But I would go on my own.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family? Yes.

Cynthetiq

01-18-2008 05:30 PM

casual user

01-18-2008 05:39 PM

Father went to college?
nope

Father finished college?
nope

Mother went to college?
does community college count?

Mother finished college?
does getting an associates count?

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
nope

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
yes

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
um...i'm not sure about this one, but probably

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
fuck no, my parents wern't big readers. most of the books in the house were mine

Were read children's books by a parent?
yes

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
yes

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
yes

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
no, college aged white kids with no direction in life are usually portrayed as idiots

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
nope, i didn't get one until a few months ago, actually

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
yes

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
...yes

Went to a private high school?
yes

Went to summer camp?
boy scout camp, yes

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
no, but then again i never required one

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
yes

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
yes, but i was the first child, so my parents didn't have much choice

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
no, but they did give me a hand-me-down car

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
hell no

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
i lived in a three-family until i was 7-ish at which point we moved to a single-family house. my parents still own the three family

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
yes, they own two houses now

You had your own room as a child?
yes

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
no

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
yes, but it was as an elective in school

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
yes. it was originally my sisters, but they gave it to me because she rarely used it and everyone hated it when i played video games on the family tv

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
yes, my parents put some of my money in a mutual fund a couple years ago. it's still in there

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
yes

Went on a cruise with your family?
yes

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
yes

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
no

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
hell no, my mom reminds me every five seconds

i've always had a comfortable life style, but looking back i can now see that my parents definately shifted upwards throughout my life. when i was very young, they were kind of lower middle class and now they're definately upper middle class. my brother, who's 8 years younger than me, had a fairly different upbringing

Jenny_Lyte

01-18-2008 07:10 PM

Father went to college?
No

Father finished college?
N/A

Mother went to college?
Yes

Mother finished college?
Yes

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
No

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
Yes, I think so

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Never counted

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
No, I know it wasn't that many

Were read children's books by a parent?
Yes

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
No

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
No

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
Most of the time, no

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
No

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
No, thank God for scholarships

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
See above

Went to a private high school?
No

Went to summer camp?
No

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
No

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
No

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
Yes

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
No

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
Yes, plenty

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Yes

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
Yes

You had your own room as a child?
Yes

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
No, but I had a cell phone for emergencies

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
No, high school prepared me just fine

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
Yes

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
No

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
No

Went on a cruise with your family?
No

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
Yes

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
Yes

dksuddeth

01-18-2008 07:11 PM

Father went to college?
No.

Father finished college?
No.

Mother went to college?
No.

Mother finished college?
No.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
No.

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
????

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
No.

Were read children's books by a parent?
Yes.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Yes.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
Yes.

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
Depends on the particular subject.

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
No.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
No college.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
No.

Went to a private high school?
No.

Went to summer camp?
Once.

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
No.

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
No.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
Not all, but after the age of 14, I bought all of my own new clothes.

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
Nobody ever bought me a car.

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
Only the ones I made.

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Yes.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
Yes.

You had your own room as a child?
Eventually.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
No.

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
No.

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
No.

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
No.

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
Yes.

Went on a cruise with your family?
No.

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
Once.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
completely aware.

Dammitall

01-18-2008 07:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ustwo

I'd rather see one that was a 'were you spoiled' You could answer yes to all those questions and still had to work your ass off in school and work.

Yes, and yes.

SaltPork

01-18-2008 08:10 PM

Hain	01-19-2008 12:46 AM

I wish I could have answered yes to most of these. At least I know which things my kids (god forbid it I should breed) will probably get.

I'll save time by just posting the ones I answer "yes" to.

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs? Yes, but I received many scholarships.
Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18? Yes, one brother, 11-years older.
You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home? Just as I went to college.
You had your own room as a child?
Had your own TV in your room in high school? Yes, but the cable didn't work.

Daniel_

01-19-2008 02:38 AM

Father went to college?
Yes.

Father finished college?
Yes.

Mother went to college?
No.

Mother finished college?
No.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
Yes (Father Dentist, Brother Doctor).

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
Yes.

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
Easilly.

Were read children's books by a parent?
Yes.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Yes.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
Yes.

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
Yes.

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
No - not legal in my country.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
Yes.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
No - there was some state subsidy, and some personal debt, most was parental.

Went to a private high school?
No.

Went to summer camp?
Yes.

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
No.

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
No.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
Not all - but most.

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
I was bought a £100 junker to learn on - it was made when I was 5 years old.

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
Yes.

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Yes.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
Yes.

You had your own room as a child?
Yes.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
No - totally uneard of in the UK in the 80s.

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
Doesn't apply - didn't have SATs.

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
Yes.

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
No.

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
Yes.

Went on a cruise with your family?
No - but did you ski-ing.

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
As above.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
Yes.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
Yes.

By this rating, I'm solidlly privileged. I worked hard for what I got out of life, but I openly aknowledge the huge step up I got from my family, and I intend to provide the same step up to my family in turn. I am not ashamed of being middle class and well educated.

zipper

01-19-2008 08:17 AM

Father went to college?
No

Father finished college?
No

Mother went to college?
No

Mother finished college?
No

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
No

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
Who Knows?

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
No

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
Definately not

Were read children's books by a parent?
No

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Nope

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
No

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
No

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
No

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
No

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
No

Went to a private high school?
No

Went to summer camp?
Yes...one time

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
No

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
Yes.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
NO...can you say YARD SALE!

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
NO

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
Hehehe...no

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Yes.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
Yes

You had your own room as a child?
Yes.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
No

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
No

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
No

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
No

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
No...AGAIN!

Went on a cruise with your family?
No

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
No

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
No...but I do know I split, stacked, carried in the heating fuel!

WOW...I am a loser...I might not have had any of those things, I grew up deep in the Ozarks in NW Arkansas...but I wouldn't have changed anything. I do know I can be self sufficient in any kind of environment. We just didn't have much....

That was fun!

Shaindra

01-19-2008 09:18 AM

Father went to college?
No. Didn't finish high school.

Father finished college?
No.

Mother went to college?
No.

Mother finished college?
No.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
No.

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
Yes.

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
Possibly, I've never counted.

Were read children's books by a parent?
Yes.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Yes.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
Yes.

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
White, professional woman...for the most part.

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
Yes.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
Yes.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
Well, depends. I had to work summers and vacations to contribute. So not entirely, but mostly.

Went to a private high school?
Yes.

Went to summer camp?
Yes.

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
I had a spanish tutor for a week, does that count?

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
Yes.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
Yes, but that's mostly because I was the youngest with a big margin between me and the older kids. Hand-me-downs were not unknown in my family.

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
Yes. Three of them, actually.

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
No.

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Yes.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
Yes..

You had your own room as a child?
Yes.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
Yes. My own phone number too.

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
No. My parents had zero savvy about college-prep anything.

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
Yes.

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
No. Are there really people who do???

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
Yes.

Went on a cruise with your family?
Yes, but it wasn't like a cruise lines cruise. It was overnight to Nova Scotia. But we did do a *lot* of travel otherwise.

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
No.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
Unaware of the exact amount? Yes. Unaware of how our actions impact it? No. I also remember lots of sweaters and big down comforters because we kept the house *cold*.

Kadath

01-19-2008 10:41 AM

Father went to college?
Yes.

Father finished college?
Yes.

Mother went to college?
Yes.

Mother finished college?
Yes.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
Yes.

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
Yes.

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Were read children's books by a parent?
Yes.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
I don't understand this question. Is it music-related?

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
I still don't get it.

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
Yes.

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
No.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
Yes.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
Yes.

Went to a private high school?
Yes.

Went to summer camp?
Yes.

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
Yes.

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
As I got older.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
As the oldest, couldn't get hand-me-downs. Don't think ant of my clothes came from consignment.

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
No.

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
No.

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Yes.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
Does this mean outright, as in, no mortgage? If so, pretty close to it.

You had your own room as a child?
Yes.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
No.

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
No interest.

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
No.

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
Owned? No. Had a small amount of stock as an inheritance that was sold to help fund college.

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
Yes.

Went on a cruise with your family?
No.

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
Yes.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
We didn't talk about money, the ultimate privileged attitude.[/QUOTE]

allaboutmusic

01-19-2008 11:20 AM

Father went to college?
Yes.

Father finished college?
Yes.

Mother went to college?
Yes.

Mother finished college?
Yes.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
Yes.

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
Yes.

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Were read children's books by a parent?
Only when I was very young. I started reading independently pretty early on.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Yes.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
Yes.

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
I suppose so.

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
I have never owned a credit card. Got my first debit card before I was 18.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
Yes.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
Yes.

Went to a private high school?
Yes, on scholarship.

Went to summer camp?
I went to outward bound school - does that count?

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
Yes as we moved to a country where I didn't know the language and I had to learn it quickly.

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
Probably once or twice, but not typically.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
Not all, but mostly as I was the eldest. I did get quite a few hand-me-downs once I got big enough to wear my dad's clothes.

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
Nope, I bought my own cars.

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
Yes, my dad liked to buy art from local artists and auctions.

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Yes.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
Yes.

You had your own room as a child?
For parts of my childhood.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
Nope.

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
I bought a book, and studied for and took it independently... didn't go to American high school.

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
Nope.

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
Nope.

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
Yes, we moved internationally several times.

Went on a cruise with your family?
No cruises... we did travel on a few different ferries but they were short journeys.

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
Yes.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
Yes, but when living in Scotland, my room was bitterly cold. Most of the rest of my childhood we lived near the Equator, so cooling was more of an interest than heating.

RangerJoe

01-19-2008 12:10 PM

Father went to college?
No

Father finished college?
No

Mother went to college?
Yes, when she was 40.

Mother finished college?
No

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
No

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
No

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
Yes

Were read children's books by a parent?
No

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Yes.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
No

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
Um, I guess.

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
Yes.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
No.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
No.

Went to a private high school?
No.

Went to summer camp?
No.

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
No.

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
No.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
Not until I got a job at 15.

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
Yes, but it was a very old used car.

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
Not unless you count my horrible paintings my mom hung up.

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
When I lived with my mom in high school, yes.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
No.

You had your own room as a child?
Not until I moved in with my dad.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
Yes

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
No.

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
Yes

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
No.

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
No.

Went on a cruise with your family?
No.

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
No.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
I was very aware.

We were a pretty lower class family.

World's King

01-19-2008 02:35 PM

Father went to college?
Yes

Father finished college?
No. He ended up being a professional clown.

Mother went to college?
Yes.

Mother finished college?
Nope. Got knocked up by a clown.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
Grandfather and uncle are dentists. Another uncle is a Psychiatrist. Another uncle is a lawyer. There is more but...

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
Higher.

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Of course.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
Most were about clowns.

Were read children's books by a parent?
Yes. Mainly the Penthouse Forum...

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Yep...

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
Ballet and Tap

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
That's a fucking retarded question...

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
Did get my first till I was 23.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
Fuck no.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
Again...

Went to a private high school?
I did go to Catholic school till high school though...

Went to summer camp?
Does Boy Scout camp count? I'm an Eagle Scout.

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
Yep. But doesn't mean I was dumb?

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
Yep. We travel a lot.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
Most of it. Yes.

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
A few...

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
Most was done by a family member.

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Always. Same house since I was 3.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
Yep... Mom still lives there.

You had your own room as a child?
Yep... I had two.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
I think so... I know my sister did.

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
I'm sure I did. That was a long time ago.

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
Wasn't huge but I did...

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
I don't think so...

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
First time on a plane I was 2

Went on a cruise with your family?
Oddly, no.

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No... again...

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
Yep. And I still go.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
I don't know... I new it wasn't free...

roachboy

01-19-2008 03:03 PM

Father went to college?
yes.

Father finished college?
yes.

Mother went to college?
yes.

Mother finished college?
no. i got in the way.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
i'm not sure. not in my immediate family.

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?

i don't understand what this is asking.

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
yes

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?

i never counted them. i think i had more than this, but i'm not sure.

Were read children's books by a parent?
i think so. yes.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?

yes.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?

uh....what?

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?

there are no people like me portrayed in the media.
exception: the dude in "the big lebowski."
obviously, that was a positive portrayal.

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?

no.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?

no.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?

no.

Went to a private high school?

no

Went to summer camp?

yes. hated it too.

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?

no

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?

no. we had a cabin in northern new hampshire. we went there.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?

so far as i remember yes.

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?

no.

There was original art in your house when you were a child?

no. antiques. tons of them.
thinking about this, maybe.
"original work of art..." what exactly does that mean?

You and your family lived in a single-family house?

yes.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?

yes.

You had your own room as a child?

yes.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?

no.

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?

no. i didnt know they existed. didnt need one as it turned out.

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
yes

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?

no. generational effect.

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?

at 16.

Went on a cruise with your family?

in a canoe around a lake.

Went on more than one cruise with your family?

uh...lots of times?

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?

museums yes.
galleries no.
we was country folk.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?

i was kept entirely in the dark about finances.
i remained entirely in the dark about finances.
i am still entirely in the dark about finances.

Dammitall

01-19-2008 03:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by roachboy

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?

i was kept entirely in the dark about finances.
i remained entirely in the dark about finances.
i am still entirely in the dark about finances.

To this day, likewise. My eyes glaze over when I even glance at the statements for my 401(k) account. It troubles me.

Glad I have an accountant.

guy44

01-19-2008 08:58 PM

Father went to college?
Yes.

Father finished college?
Yes.

Mother went to college?
Yes.

Mother finished college?
Yes.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
Yes.

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
Yes.

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
Probably, if you include children's books.

Were read children's books by a parent?
Yes.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Yes.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
Yes.

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
Yes.

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
No.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
Yes.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
Yes.

Went to a private high school?
No, but it was a top-flight magnet school.

Went to summer camp?
Yes.

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
Yes, off and on when I needed help.

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
Yes.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
Yes.

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
No, I've never owned a car. My parents have offered but I have never wanted or needed one - so far.

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
Yes.

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Yes, from 4 1/2 years old on.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
My parents and a family friend owned our two-flat in my early childhood. My parents JUST paid their last mortgage payment on their home of 20 years a couple of weeks ago, but I've already moved out.

You had your own room as a child?
Yes.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
No.

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
Yes, SAT.

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
No.

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
No, but I did have a couple of stocks (Bar Mitzvah gifts/money).

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
Yes.

Went on a cruise with your family?
We traveled a lot, but only on one three-day cruise with some extended family.

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
Yes.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
Yes.

Destrox

01-19-2008 09:04 PM

This looks interesting, so here we go.

Father went to college?
No.

Father finished college?
NA.

Mother went to college?
No.

Mother finished college?
NA.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
No.

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
NA.

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
No.

Were read children's books by a parent?
Yes.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Yes.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
Yes.

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
Yeah for the most part. Theres always the occasional foul ball.

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
Yes. (Family gas card.)

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
No.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
No.

Went to a private high school?
No, but it was a rich and quite snobby place.

Went to summer camp?
No.

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
No.

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
Yes.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
When I was under 6~ years old, yeah. After that, no.

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
Bought me a brand new truck for my 16th.

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
Close, we had a couple that were limited hand drawn print. (2 of 30) type.

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Yes.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
Yes.

You had your own room as a child?
Yes.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
Yes.

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
Yes.

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
Yes.

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
No.

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
Yes.

Went on a cruise with your family?
No, we either drove or flew anywhere we went.

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
NA.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
Yes, but not a lot.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
Actually no, my father always tried to teach me the ugly side of life at a young age. This includes the expensive side of it all.

Hoo-ray.

Suprised to see nothing about our own self going to college, graduating said college, etc. Holding a job, .....

alicat

01-19-2008 09:56 PM

Father went to college?
Yes

Father finished college?
Yes, Master's in Art.

Mother went to college?
Yes

Mother finished college?
No

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
Yes, Dad's an art professor, Great Uncle a judge and 2nd cousin a lawyer.

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
I have no clue but I would venture equal or lesser.

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Definately

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
Lord yes.

Were read children's books by a parent?
Yes. Great memories of Dad reading us Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer, among many others.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Art through osmosis from my parents since in utereo.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
No, exactly two, one from my father and one from my mother,

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
I couldn't say, the people in media might be portrayed "positively" but I don't have anything in common with them,

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
No

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
No. However, my father taught so I had a good portion of credits free.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
See above

Went to a private high school?
No, none of the few were.

Went to summer camp?
No. Always wanted to.

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
No, my mother was one though.

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
Camping all the way.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
Hell no. Salvation Army or hand-me-downs from more well-off relatives. I appreciate it now but didn't then; my Grandma always bought me tartan skirts and oxford shirts each school year.

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
No. I bought my first car with waitressing wages, a 1965 Ford Falcon.

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
Yep, my parents art and many, many other artists (not famous but wonderful all the same).

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Yes, many, owned first one when I turned 12.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
Yes, two.

You had your own room as a child?
Yes, first time in fifth grade.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
No

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
No

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
No

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
No, still don't.

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
Nope, 19 yrs. old first time.

Went on a cruise with your family?
Never

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
See above

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
Thankfully, they were an intricate part of my rearing.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
I was unaware of the costs, but very aware that it was costly, as my sister and I fought to get dressed for school over the heat vents.

BadNick

01-19-2008 10:09 PM

Father went to college?
Yes.

Father finished college?
Yes.

Mother went to college?
Yes, but I think teachers' college in pre-WWII Europe was not full 4 year bachelor's program college.

Mother finished college?
Yes; as noted above.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
Yes.

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
No, at least not most.

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
No.

Were read children's books by a parent?
Yes.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Yes.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
Yes.

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
Yes; though I guess sometimes professionals who are very laid back and casual in work are not always portrayed positviely.

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
No.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
about 50/50 parents/me.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
No.

Went to a private high school?
Yes.

Went to summer camp?
No; except a couple 2 week camps with the Boy Scouts.

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
No.

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
No.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
Yes.

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
No. My parents have never owned a car and I bought my first one when I graduated from college.

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
Yes. My father was a professional artist his whole life, so many of his works as well as some others.

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Yes.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
Yes, but just barely; a couple years after I graduated college is when I left home and that is the same year they purchased their first and only house

You had your own room as a child?
No, always shared with my younger brother until I was 17 and he "had to" get married.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
No.

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
No.

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
No.

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
No.

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
No.

Went on a cruise with your family?
No.

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
Yes.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
No.

surferlove007

01-19-2008 11:57 PM

Father went to college?
Yes.

Father finished college?
Yes.

Mother went to college?
Yes.

Mother finished college?
Yes.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
Yes.

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
Yes.

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
Probably closer to 700

Were read children's books by a parent?
Yes, two books typically.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Yes.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
Sailing, and Art.

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
Yes, unless they were democrats according to my dad.
Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
No, my mother won't let me get one and I'll be 20 in a few months.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
Yes, parents.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
Yes.

Went to a private high school?
Private Lutheran School from beginning school to 8th grade. I think that counts. My HS was like a mini high school in an inner-city school for all the AP Kids which I was included in.

Went to summer camp?
Yes, often.

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
Sailing, and reading in elementary.

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
Yes.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
Had a number of hand-me-downs from my sister, but on a lot of things yes.

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
Yes, a 92' Honda Civic my sister and I both wrecked and now my current 99' Paid off VW Beetle.

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
Yes.

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
We were the only family there so I assume so.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
Yes, 3 houses before we were born, 1 in England and 2 in the states.

You had your own room as a child?
Yes.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
Yes.

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
Yes, 4 summers in a row. Didn't really help much.

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
Yes.

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
Soon I'll have one.

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
Yes. To Europe, GA, and TX.

Went on a cruise with your family?
No.

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
Yes.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
Not too much. Dad made comments about it. We utilized the fireplace.

My parents came from poverty, they gave 5 yrs of their lives for the Air Force in order to get GI Bill for school in order to make something of themselves and give my sister and I a better childhood and life and to not make us sacrifice the way they had to. I appreciate it more than they probably know. We have a good amount of money and a nice house, the reason being my parents are spendthrifts. Moms going to be a VP for Lockheed Martin before too long. We both have jobs and work our butts off in school. Yes we're spoiled, sister has a house and car and I have a car and will get a house. We're fortunate.

Charlatan

01-20-2008 12:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ustwo

:lol:

I would say privilege must be the new buzz word for 'middle class with involved parents'.

I'd rather see one that was a 'were you spoiled' You could answer yes to all those questions and still had to work your ass off in school and work.

I am not sure I completely agree with you on this but I do agree that the whole "privilege" thing is loaded with many different interpretations.

There are all sorts of people who are exceptions to the rules but the norm is if you are of the middle class you will likely stay in that class or go up.

Privilege is really just having a leg up or a stronger starting position.

mixedmedia

01-20-2008 10:11 AM

Father went to college?
Yes.

Father finished college?
Yes.

Mother went to college?
Yes.

Mother finished college?
No.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
Yes.

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
Yes.

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Were read children's books by a parent?
Yes.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Yes.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
No.

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
Yes.

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
No.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
No.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
No.

Went to a private high school?
No.

Went to summer camp?
No.

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
No.

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
Yes.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
Most, yes, but I also had hand-me-downs and we enjoyed shopping at second-hand stores.

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
No.

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
Yes.

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Yes.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
Yes.

You had your own room as a child?
Yes.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
No.

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
No.

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
No.

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
No.

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
Yes.

Went on a cruise with your family?
No.

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
Yes.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
Yes.

Eweser

01-21-2008 07:19 AM

Father went to college?
Yes

Father finished college?
No

Mother went to college?
No

Mother finished college?
No

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
No

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
Yes

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Yes

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
No

Were read children's books by a parent?
Yes

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
No

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
No

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
Yes

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
No

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
Yes

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
Yes

Went to a private high school?
No

Went to summer camp?
Yes

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
No

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
Yes

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
No. Most was new, but I had a fair amount of hand-me-downs.

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
No

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
No

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Yes, until I was 16.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
Yes

You had your own room as a child?
No. I didn't get my own room until I was 13.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
No

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
No

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
Yes

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
No

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
No

Went on a cruise with your family?
No

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
No

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
Yes

PonyPotato

01-21-2008 02:28 PM

Father went to college?
Yes.

Father finished college?
Yes.

Mother went to college?
No.

Mother finished college?
No.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
No.

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
Yes.

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
Probably.

Were read children's books by a parent?
Yes.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Yes.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
Yes.

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
Generally, yes.

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
No.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
No, scholarships have paid for my college. My parents would have paid if necessary, though.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
See above.

Went to a private high school?
No. Rural public school.

Went to summer camp?
Yes.

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
For riding lessons, never schoolwork.

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
Yes.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
Yes, because I was the oldest child.

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
Not my first car. My second car (18th birthday) was a "new" used car.

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
We have a few paintings that I think came with the house or from antique fairs. I'm the only "artistic" one in my family.

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Yes.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
Yes.

You had your own room as a child?
My sister and I shared until I was about 8.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
No, never have.

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
Nope.

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
No.

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
No.

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
Yes.

Went on a cruise with your family?
Never been on a cruise.

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
Not usually. That's one thing I wish was different.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
Until I was about 16, yes.

spindles

01-21-2008 02:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by spinelust

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?

I'm not even sure exactly what this question means but it sounds so fucked up. How the hell would I know the socio economic status of teachers from 25 years ago?

genuinegirly

01-21-2008 04:10 PM

Father went to college?
yes

Father finished college?
yes

Mother went to college?
yes

Mother finished college?
yes

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
no

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
no

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
yes

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
yes

Were read children's books by a parent?
yes

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
no

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
no

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
yes

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
no

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
no

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
no

Went to a private high school?
no

Went to summer camp?
no

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
no

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
no

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
no

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
no

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
no

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
yes

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
yes

You had your own room as a child?
No

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
Yes.

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
No.

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
No.

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
No.

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
Yes

Went on a cruise with your family?
No.

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
Yes.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
No.

Jinn	01-22-2008 09:35 AM

So it turns out this thread was kinda boring, because almost everyone just replied mySpace-quiz style, and didn't actually add anything interesting to their posts.

I keep coming back hoping for something unique to read, but ... alas, no.

Leto	01-22-2008 10:14 AM

Well, Let me answer and add some support....

Father went to college?

Yes - but only after immigrating to post war Canada from Germany and finishing Grade 13 (High school) while learning English at the same time. Since the war had interrupted his schooling he had a lot of catching up to do. As well he had to fight prejudice of not being WASP, but rather a dirty Kraut, still seen as the 'enemy' at the time.

Father finished college?

Yes. He was required to complete university in order to continue with his chosen profession as an English teacher. That's right, the German immigrant learned and taught English right out of high school. then the province required that a University degree is a necessity for the role, and so off he went, with a newborn son (me) to become a frosh at the age of 29.

Mother went to college?
Yes. as well as finishing school. She belonged to an 'establishment' family in the Lakehead.

Mother finished college?
Yes. - became an RN - the only accepted role for a lady at the time. Her 50th reunion of the graduating class was last September, and the survivors went on an Alaskan cruise.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
no.

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
yes - if economic station is what is implied here. There are other issues that were very real in 1950's Canada all around religion/ethnicity.

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Yes definitely. all avid readers.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
most assuredly. Everything from pulp fiction to technical treatises.

Were read children's books by a parent?
Yes.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Yes.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
Yes. - piano, swimming, baseball, hockey, curling, accordian, trombone, archery, canoing, skiing, horseback riding

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
I would say so, unless they want to portray white male family men as narrowminded and/or stupid (i.e. Family Guy, World According to Jim, Everybody Loves Raymond, King of Queen's etc)

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
No. no no nooo.... first card was offered to me upon graduation from university.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
no no.... Parents paid for my first year's tuition. I worked summers for the remainder. But then, tuition for me was $770 in 1978, and I think it is around $5500 now for the same programme. That's about one summer's savings.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
nope. self sufficient.

Went to a private high school?
No, but my high school acted elitist whenever we could.

Went to summer camp?
Yes. once or twice. YMCA camp.

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
Royal Conservatory of Music lessons; math.

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
Yes. - Florida for Christmas, Expo 67 in Montreal.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
mostly new, being the oldest, I rarely received hand-me-downs

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
No, but I used my mother's car ('72 Opel GT) all the time:

http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d1...12-2005_4H.jpg

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
Nothing famous. My mother painted her on her own. The '60's & '70's seemed to be a big "me" decade, where the 20 to 30 - somethings did stuff like pottery, painting, bowling, bridge parties etc...

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Yes. Always, two of them we actually put in "in-ground" swimming pools.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
Not as much as I own mine now. My mortgage has been paid off for a few years now. Their's never did get paid off.

You had your own room as a child?
Nope, shared with my brother until I left for university. Then I had a room-mate. After leaving residence, I shacked up with my girlfriend, and now I am married to her. I guess that the only time I've slept in my own space was in a pup tent while tree planting!

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
Yes, Red Northern Telecom Contempra phone, with touchtone:

http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d1...000/60s05a.jpg

isn't it cool?
http://www.civilization.ca/media/docs/fs60s02e.html

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
No, not required in Canada.

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
yes, a black & white Zenith 14 incher, with cable:

http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d1...00/zen7t01.jpg

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
No. We never had a clue back then, it was enough to earn tuition.

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
No.

Went on a cruise with your family?
NNo, we did road trips in the station wagon.

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
Yes: The Royal Ontario Museum, the Art Gallery of Ontario, McMichael Collection, Agnes Etherington Art Gallery.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
Very much so. Natural Gas was/is relatively cheap.

so, those are my stock answers. I guess the key point is what values did I take from this upbringing, and how is it translating to my children? My wife (whom I met at university) had a very different upbringing. Both of her parents were born in China, and she was raised as an immigrant's daughter. No frills to her childhood at all. Family trips were usually picninc outings taken by streetcar to High Park. Post Christmas blues were a reality for her as friends at school would compare their playful bounty against her parent's pragmatic gifts.

As a result, I/we have crafted a family approach that is pragmatic, but not tight. We spend as wisely as possible and have taken family trips to tropical locations, yet we own our house. We didn't leverage ourselves beyond our means. We enforced a 75% savings rule on our kids, in that 75% of all monies that they receive from birthdays, Christmas, part time jobs etc gets directed into their savings accounts. Since we finance all their essentials, the remaining 25% is all that they need for entertainment. This applies to the age of 18 (our first is that age now). This guy now has $12K in bonds, savings and registered education savings plans as a result of this approach.

I think the point that we are trying to cultivate is to not take things for granted.

Dammitall

01-22-2008 10:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JinnKai

This is actually a very good question, and a pretty good demonstrator of the "unearned privilege" that people talk about. Two years ago, before meeting my current girlfriend, I would've dismissed this list as a pandering excuse for poor people and women to complain about how bad their lives were. Now I see it as a very serious indictment of privilege in America.

And actually, despite my answers being nearly identical to yours, spinelust, I must admit that because of my "media" answer, and the fact that I'm a straight white male, my 'unearned privilege' is much greater than yours. I've become more and more aware of how media really shapes 'privilege.' I don't think these questions are all equal, and certain answers weight much more strongly on the end result.

In college I remember doing a similar exercise, but you all lined up and stepped back if No, forward if Yes. It was really sobering at the end to see the physical distance between members of the same class, and this was in a college. Random people off the street would've been far more disparate.

Quote:

Originally Posted by JinnKai

Maybe here is where the discussion can begin?

I'm familiar with the exercise you've spoken of, and it has been illuminating every time I have seen it, especially when we did it in an environment (my high school) where so many people had grown up with one another and assumed they knew everything about each other.

What struck me the most as I typed out my responses to these questions was knowing where my own parents had come from and how much they have achieved given their humble beginnings, my mom especially. She was raised in a family of six siblings in the projects on the lower East Side of Manhattan and put herself through night college to become first a nurse and then a doctor. I am certain that their own experiences shaped their desires for my sister and me to have every possible opportunity for a comfortable life, but I wonder about their own feelings and whether they ever look back and think about what they've accomplished in their lifetime.

I also wonder about my dad's experience, given that he is white/Caribbean/Latino, and the challenges he may have faced as a result. I wonder about whether my parents worried that a disparity would grow between myself and my sister, given that she has darker skin like my dad's and mine is lighter like my mom's. I have heard stories of my dad's father and uncle, the former being lighter skinned and favored by their mother and the latter being darker skinned and rejected by her. I wonder how my dad has felt about that over time.

It would be at this point that I would start up a conversation with my parents to get a sense of what they think about it, but this has yet to happen.

Of course there are challenges present nowadays, even among the super-privileged, that couldn't have been predicted. What comes to my mind immediately is the cutthroat competitiveness among parents to get their toddlers accepted into top-notch private nursery school programs. That's not something I am faced with right now and it's difficult for me to relate to; as a result, it seems almost ridiculous to me (I mean, come on... nursery school?!), especially when compared to the challenges faced by the underprivileged. Odds are I'd feel differently if I were in that situation myself.

BadNick

01-22-2008 11:56 AM

Similar to some people's comments above, I'm very grateful and consider myself very priveleged that things turned out so well for me considering the meager beginnings of my family here in the U.S.

My parents emigrated here in late 1952; and from about the middle of WWII until late '52 they lived in displaced persons camps since they had to leave Hungary (dad) and Yugoslavia (mom) during the war to avoid war-related b.s.; while we aren't Jewish so we didn't have all that trauma to deal with, it was still nasty. My younger brother and I were born in such a "camp/town" in Austria. They came here with an appreciation for the importance of education, my dad was classically educated and trained as a professional artist in Hungary/Europe, and after high school my mom got whatever additional education was required to be an elementary school teacher there. My parents sacrificed and did without a lot of things I saw other parents have so that they could make life better for their children. I can hardly believe they managed to pay for it since it was relatively a lot of money, but my younger sister and I attended local Catholic "preparatory" high schools here since my parents believed it was worth it. They never owned a house until the year I graduated from college, though they could probably have bought one sooner if they weren't so stubborn and believed more in the American way of credit/debt. They never to this day had a credit card.

So compared to that, my kids live in another universe and have almost anything they want. But I'm glad we can give them what we can, and we continually make an effort to have them not take it all for granted. I tell them old family stories about how things were and I think that helps.

Plan9

01-22-2008 01:14 PM

Fuck, this thread is going to be longer than Lord of the Rings.

Ustwo

01-22-2008 01:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JinnKai

So your girlfriend made you feel guilty for being a white male? Not the first time I've seen it happen, hope it works better for you in the long run then it did for my friend. I'm still trying to figure out my white male 'privilege'. I had to have better grades to get into college, better grades to get into dental school, better grades to get into my specialty, received no extra help in money or tutoring(like I would have if I were female or better yet a non-Asian minority, or god bless me a non-asian minority female.), and yet here I am, all privileged.

I'm not going to get all whiny about it and claim its a horrible injustice, I'll leave that for the people who didn't get in but would have if they were non-white males, but outside of old people being more comfortable with me, and cops being less suspicious I don't feel overly privileged.

jewels

01-22-2008 01:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by spinelust

I wonder about their own feelings and whether they ever look back and think about what they've accomplished in their lifetime.

I've had this discussion with my parents and my dad worked to get where he was. He was in college to become a dentist when his job, that paid his way through, became his career after being recognized by his boss. He worked hard and provided for our family very comfortably. Although I didn't have many of the things some others here have, my father could have afforded them. He and my Mom felt the work ethic and earning our own way would be the best experience. I worked for his retail chain, beginning with summers only, when I was twelve years old. I was given chores to do in the home and a weekly allowance that was smaller than that of my "poor" friends. But books? Any I wanted. They were considered a right, not a privilege as almost everything else was, in our house.

I've had that talk you referred to with my parents. My dad never felt that he overcame the poverty he grew up in. He felt that he knew he'd be successful because he was driven to do well. He wanted the best for my brother and I but did not want us to learn to expect or take things for granted.

I don't think anyone fits into any precise mold here. I could have been a PhD in English Lit by now if I'd stuck with my initial plan. I could have been working at a huge ad agency in Manhattan when I was 18, but made another choice.

I've had some privileges and not had others. But I think, ultimately, it's about the wisdom we've gained to make the right choices, corny as that may sound. I made a lot of mistakes, could have easily overcome them, but didn't see past them at the time. None of it has any remote connection to privilege.

As for my kids, they've had to take a cut in lifestyle the past five or six years (since I divorced their dad). But I've seen them become stronger, brighter and more motivated than ever. And maybe they've had experiences that more privileged kids haven't and may be more apt to appreciate what they earn.

uncle phil

01-22-2008 04:32 PM

lame-o college freshman survey, addressed to college students...

like, it fits everyman?

sorry, i have severe problems with this type of "survey..."

PonyPotato

01-22-2008 04:42 PM

My parents are immigrants. They moved to the US in 1983, and both were naturalized before I turned 10. That made me the first member of my family to experience the US school system, the first member of my family to go to a US college, and, additionally, I will be the first member of my family who will attain a graduate degree (yes, it's a few years away, so what?). I suppose because they saw the US as an opportunity, and because I grew up learning the system from the system itself (not from my family's experiences), my upbringing has made the way I perceive things a little different. My experience is not and was not primed by my parents' stories, biases, or experiences. It is entirely my own.

Does that change how I'm perceived? I don't think so, superficially, because you can't know my family's details just from looking at me. But I think that it does change peoples' perception of me, at least a little bit, once they meet my parents. I suppose the accents make it "real."

uncle phil

01-22-2008 04:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by merleniau

thanks for the affirmation...

PonyPotato

01-22-2008 05:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by uncle phil

thanks for the affirmation...

I'm a college student, yes. But that doesn't mean you can't answer the questions and join the discussion?

Edited to add: I'm not sure what your point in that quote is, perhaps I'm just totally dense and missing it. :paranoid:

hrandani

01-23-2008 10:13 PM

Any privileges I was granted by the virtue of my upbringing was outweighed by the other cutting of the sword. It wasn't all money-hats and vacations.

Both my parents are lawyers, both are enormously dysfunctional in terms of basic social skills. Both of my parents, and my parent's parents, are very intelligent and learned professionals; very high rates of mental illness are present in my family's genetic load. Despite having 5 ? degrees, my mother hasn't worked for the entire duration of my life. Despite being an enormously qualified attorney my father worked for the government for his entire professional life and consequently, while he had more time for his children, there was roughly equal money to be had in teaching public school.

There are many good things about having educated parents, but this survey doesn't do a good job about revealing them, and completely ignores the value of having a large, loving family that supports you. I know plenty of wealthy lone children who would trade places in an instant with sprawling immigrant families, and would be 100% better off consequently.

And no, the last time I checked white geeks (actual ones, not faux geeks) were not portrayed well in the media.

surferlove007

01-24-2008 12:09 AM

I'd like throw something into this mix.
I went to go start a new job today at a Cat shelter. The lady whom I was planning on working for expected me to blow off my spring break plans for work and to work weekends with little time off. I told her I wasn't sure about the summer and if I'd be available to work following the end of the semester. She got very upset with me. I also mentioned my dad wasn't too crazy about me working there due to the drive. (20 miles away one way) She immediately told me that she needed to know right at that instant what my plans were. I went outside and called my dad and basically told him to tell me I wasn't allowed to continue working there and tell her so as well. My gut told me to leave and not come back.
She got very upset furthermore and ranted about "my generation" being a bunch of spoon-fed brats who have no work ethic what-so-ever. She is also a 55 year old woman who lives on 95 acres of land south of College Station with three houses of cats. She takes care of rescued cats and due to her age and number of them (150 plus) she needs help. She finds homes for them also. She doesn't have that many! I felt like mentioning to her, it would difficult to find students who are willing to both drive there and then give up their holidays. I need those breaks to get me through the semester.

She actually made me cry when she was ranting. I made the right decision not to work for her. I do support her helping the cats and feel bad I won't be helping with them. I just didn't feel comfortable working there, she just didn't seem like someone I want to deal with.

I don't understand why she generalizes "my" generation of people with being spoon-fed, over-privileged brats. She doesn't know me or where I came from. I hope not all of the baby-boomer's have this opinion of the younger folks.

Dtamr

01-24-2008 12:25 AM

Father went to college?
No.

Father finished college?
No.

Mother went to college?
Yes.

Mother finished college?
No.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
No.

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
Yes.

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Were read children's books by a parent?
Yes.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Yes.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
No.

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
For the most part, yeah.

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
No.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
Yes, though that will change soon.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
No.

Went to a private high school?
No.

Went to summer camp?
Once.

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
Yes - terrible at math.

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
Yes.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
For the most part, yeah.

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
Kind of. They bought a car, but never used it, so I use it now. It's not officially mine.

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
Not until I bought some for my room.

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Yes.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
No.

You had your own room as a child?
Yes.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
Yes.

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
No.

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
Yes.

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
No.

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
Yes.

Went on a cruise with your family?
They mostly went without me.

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
Yes.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
I was. But we live in a temperate area, never gets cold, so heating bills are not problematic.

Charlatan

01-24-2008 01:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ghoastgirl1

I can't believe you actually called your Dad to have him, "tell me I wasn't allowed to continue working there and tell her so as well". How about making that call for yourself?

I have interviewed many people of your generation for jobs and I have found, even here in Asia, a great sense of entitlement. I know this is a generalization but I can safely say that a high percentage of young people today (that I have encountered in various ways) don't have the slightest clue about hard work and sacrifice. I can also say that I also came across this attitude in great frequency with people my age when they were your age (perhaps it's a function of what it means to be in your late teens and early 20s these days).

A job is a job. You don't get to decide if you get days off for holidays. You only get to decide if you want to work somewhere or not.

Perhaps her berating you was a bit harsh. I am sure it wasn't easy to have someone tell you what they think of you to your face. I know I find that kind of situation very intimidating. I hope you take something away from it besides, she was an old cranky woman with too many cats.

Cynthetiq

01-24-2008 05:57 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ghoastgirl1

I guess that is a good explanation of your privileges.

I didn't get a choice if I worked holidays or not. I didn't get paid if I didn't punch in. This meant no sick days, and when a holiday came up like President's Weekend or Memorial Day, was I happy to get it? Nope, because it meant I didn't get paid for 8 hours. No vacation days, no Christmas Day off pay.

In fact when I asked for a raise, the boss suggested I work the weekend shift available and pick up any of the overtime that was being offered. When I took the job I explained that I didn't work Saturdays or past 5PM, that standoff lasted for 3 months.

Yep, at $4.35 even when I worked 80 hours in a single week, I only grossed $348, much less than when I did computer consulting for one night's work. The bus ride was almost 1 hour each way during rush hour. After rush hour, it was 1.5 to 2 hours depending if I got an express bus or a local.

When I did get some free time, I didn't even have the opportunity to make any purchases of things I needed like clothes. Because I lived in a county in NJ that had Blue Laws, most everything was closed on Sundays, my only day off. In order to go shopping I'd have to take a bus to the next county over which took about 2 hours each way because it was Sunday schedule.

When I was in college, while my parents offered to pay for everything. I didn't want it nor did I accept it. I paid most of my own way through college, working a 40 work week, and taking 18 units in the evenings.

I never went to Spring Break until MTV sent me to Panama City Beach in 1997 to work there for 3 weeks. I wasn't there to party and hang out, I was there to get a job done and my part in getting shows produced.

PonyPotato

01-24-2008 06:08 AM

I'm lucky enough to be in college on scholarship. My merit scholarships pay for everything; tuition, books, food. My job is an "additional spending money and a way to spend extra time" job and it is extremely flexible. I work from home on my own computer when I want to.. in my case, this involves working primarily over weekends and holidays because that way I get a good chunk of work done without interfering with classes.

I have worked other jobs here in school, with schedules and workloads I didn't like. I was once working 30 hours a week at a bar, then driving 45 minutes one-way to clean stalls at a barn (10 stalls, 3 times a week, so it took me a while) so I could keep my horse there for free. (This is in addition to 20 credit hours of work at school.) In the month and a half I kept him there, I only had the extra time to ride my horse ONCE. I ended up getting pneumonia and my parents pushed me to let both commitments go. I know that my scholarships allow me to not work, but I enjoy the experiences and I actually manage my time a lot better when I'm under pressure.

I'm lucky I have my parents and my scholarships to support me if I absolutely cannot work when in school, and thus I get to make choices about when and where I do work. When there's a deadline, though, I have to stick to it, whether it means working through Christmas day or not going out on the weekend or not.

Leto	01-24-2008 07:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ghoastgirl1

I don't understand why she generalizes "my" generation of people with being spoon-fed, over-privileged brats. She doesn't know me or where I came from. I hope not all of the baby-boomer's have this opinion of the younger folks.

When I read this last part I had to give myself a shake, because as a baby-boomer, I always received the "my generation" speech from countless adults. Especially when I was going through my late teens to late 20's trying to establish myself in something... ANYTHING that would be a paying job.

I also think that the Cat Lady was off base with her rant, and definitely unprofessional. I would have been a lot more professional in my approach, and have actually turned down or left jobs when I was in my young 20's because I didn't like the conditions. It's all a negotiation, and should not be personalized in the way that the Cat Lady took it out on you, nor in the way that you called your dad to "get permission". I kind of have to agree with Charlatan in this respect. You should be calling the shots, and stick up for yourself.

Incidentally, if this means that you need to manage your own sacrifices, then don't let your peers coerce you into activities that would automatically rule out a job prospect (such as weekend work or spring break activities). You need to prioritize for yourself and determine what is important in a holistic sense.

In the workplace these days though, I am amazed at the sense of entitlement that recent graduates have. There doesn't seem to be a desire to come up through the ranks and learn the business. I have a feeling that there is a perceived need to catch up to the economic or consumptive standing of the parent's generation with as little effort as possible...

~~~~~
edit:
I just needed to add something with respect to my oldest son. He is now 18 and has submitted his university applications. Last year, he completed grade 12, but due to a let up in his study habits, managed to get a 73 avg which, needless to say, severely hampered his choices. Now, since Grade 13 was removed, and the curriculum adjusted, many students go back to grade 12 to perform what is called the "Victory Lap" which is an attempt to improve marks. My son did just that, and is currently sitting at an 88.7 avg.

He has noticed through the university fairs, that this can translate to real $$$. Since he is above 85 %, he automatically qualifies for $2500/ annum towards tuition, which is roughtly half the cost.

The problem is, getting him to understand that he is "that close" to achieving this benchmark if he continues to expend the similar effort for the remaining 2 terms of his Victory Lap. Consequently, we, as parents, have been riding his ass hard about his target and he is complaining at his lack of freedom.

I need for him to understand that the money is important, and that his efforts will translate directly into a better quality of life during university.

Dammitall

01-24-2008 07:54 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hrandani

There are many good things about having educated parents, but this survey doesn't do a good job about revealing them, and completely ignores the value of having a large, loving family that supports you. I know plenty of wealthy lone children who would trade places in an instant with sprawling immigrant families, and would be 100% better off consequently.

I think my sister would agree with you here; lately she goes on and on in our conversations about how our parents showered us with gifts and opportunities, yet never spent the kind of quality time they may have had they not busied themselves with such intensity in their own professional lives.

surferlove007

01-24-2008 10:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Charlatan

I made the call myself, however my dad was the easiest way to get me out of that situation ASAP. I was out in the middle of nowhere off a dirt/gravel road, and wanted to leave so that was the choice I made. I was the one who made the decision, it wasn't right for me. No one wants to work for someone who treats her cats better than her employees who clean up their shit.

A little about my background...I have been working since I turned 15. Got my lifeguard certifications and have guarded for 4 years, coming up on my 5th year. I would work 100 plus hours every two weeks in the sun for up to 12 hours a day sometimes. I know how to work hard and what ethic is. Anyways..
When it comes to being in school full-time, I'm not going to allow a job to rule when I can and can't go to Spring Break. I need that break off of school in order to relax and just breath. I don't think that's a ridiculous request in the least. I have the mornings to work. Weekends are when I also relax from the week. School part time jobs are very different from full-time, they work with your schedule versus telling you what you HAVE to do. School's stressful and takes a lot of time, I think most of you can recall that.

My parents have the means of supporting me through school however do not hand out money much at all. They both gave 5 yrs to AF to get their GI Bill because their parents wouldn't or couldn't afford to send them to school. They didn't want my sis or I to have to do that.

Holidays are important to students. They allow time to breath. I worked from April of last summer till December at the TTU Aquatic Center as guard/ swim instructor and they worked with me. They did a fair way of allotting who got time off and who didn't for certain holidays. I think I was completely justified in quiting this job because of it's inflexibility. I plan to find that in my next job as well.

So yes, it was the lame way out but behind the decision it was all me. Dad was just the excuse to GTHO. It worked. It also reaffirmed her decision that young people suck, but that's already pretty firmly there.

Bill O'Rights

01-24-2008 10:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ghoastgirl1

I don't understand why she generalizes "my" generation of people with being spoon-fed, over-privileged brats.

I cannot, for the life of me, imagine why...

oh...

Quote:

Originally Posted by ghoastgirl1

The lady whom I was planning on working for expected me to blow off my spring break plans for work and to work weekends with little time off. I told her I wasn't sure about the summer and if I'd be available to work following the end of the semester.

Well...that might be it. Think?

snowy

01-24-2008 10:20 AM

I'm going to give this list to one of my professors. I'm taking a multicultural issues in education class, and it's really relevant to the topic we'll be addressing next week--socio-economic status.

abaya

01-24-2008 10:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ghoastgirl1

When it comes to being in school full-time, I'm not going to allow a job to rule when I can and can't go to Spring Break. I need that break off of school in order to relax and just breath. I don't think that's a ridiculous request in the least. I have the mornings to work. Weekends are when I also relax from the week. School part time jobs are very different from full-time, they work with your schedule versus telling you what you HAVE to do. School's stressful and takes a lot of time, I think most of you can recall that.

GG, I'm not saying anything about your ability to work hard, or what your work ethic is. I don't know you well enough to even pretend to comment on that.

However, since this is a thread about privilege, I will say that this paragraph I quoted reveals a substantial level of privilege in your life. First and foremost, it is a HUGE privilege to be a college student, compared to most people in the world (and even in the US, though of course it's becoming normalized). The fact that you don't HAVE to allow a job to take priority over your holidays is also a huge indication of privilege (I am also speaking from a position of privilege, so I am not trying to judge you, but just indicate something as I recognize it in my own life.)

And lastly, this comes from someone who has been in classrooms for the last 23 years, myself... yes, school is stressful and takes a lot of time, but it's still *just school*. I would say that many of us here (who went to college) look back rather fondly on our college years, remembering how "tough and hard" it all felt to us back then... never realizing just how much more demanding a real job would be. It's stressful and time-consuming to you at the moment, but I can guarantee you that a LOT of people would give up everything they have, to enjoy the level of privilege that you have. That's not meant to induce guilt, but again, I speak from the same position... and it took me a long time to realize that I don't really have any right to complain about my situation.

Someone once told a friend of mine, in college (after he vented about how stressed his classes and homework were making him): "What's your problem? All you have to worry about is school." This friend repeated the story to a group of us, and it stuck with me. It is an incredible privilege to *only* have to worry about school, and maybe a relationship. Compared to what most of the world goes through on a daily basis, in terms of sheer survival, people like us are living in the lap of luxury.

That's all. I hope you don't take this the wrong way. But privilege is privilege, there are no two ways around it.

surferlove007

01-24-2008 10:49 AM

I appreciate that Abaya, I realize it's just school. My parents view it a different way. I also realize it's a huge privilege to be in school. I wasn't complaining about being underprivileged because my folks aren't willing to deal out tons of cash, just stating a situation that I thought was relevant to the topic.

B.O.R...I've had plans for spring break for quite some time now. I don't see why everyone expects college students to just drop their plans for HUGE holidays like those. I was not even working yet when she told me what she wanted and that I would have to deal with it. I chose not to have to deal.

Ustwo

01-24-2008 10:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by abaya

And lastly, this comes from someone who has been in classrooms for the last 23 years, myself... yes, school is stressful and takes a lot of time, but it's still *just school*. I would say that many of us here (who went to college) look back rather fondly on our college years, remembering how "tough and hard" it all felt to us back then... never realizing just how much more demanding a real job would be.

I remember move in day at college freshman year at college. My dad came down and said something I won't forget. At the time it made no sense to me, but I'm going to feel the same way when my son goes.

He said 'You don't know how jealous of you I am right now.'

I remember it because it sort of baffled me at the time. Why would my successful father be jealous of an 18 year old with an uncertain future and all that 'work' to do.

Right now I owe the bank well over half a million on a business loan, if I fail this exam, I won't be able to just drop the class and take it next semester. Needless to say it would be awesome to go back to that level of 'stress' and 'work'.

ktspktsp

01-24-2008 10:55 AM

Father went to college?
Yes.

Father finished college?
Yes.

Mother went to college?
Yes.

Mother finished college?
Yes.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
Yes. No attorneys but several physicians, and professors.

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
Yes.

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Were read children's books by a parent?
Yes.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Yes.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
Yes.

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
No (Arab..).

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
No.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
Yes.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
Yes. That is probably the biggest privilege.

Went to a private high school?
Yes.

Went to summer camp?
Yes, a couple of times.

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
Yes.

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
Yes.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
Yes.

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
Yes.

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
Yes.

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
No, in an apartment. A large one though, and it was in the middle of a city (Beirut) where single-family homes are quite rare.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
Yes.

You had your own room as a child?
Yes.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
Yes.

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
Yes.

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
No. A good thing :).

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
No.

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
Yes.

Went on a cruise with your family?
No. But we traveled many times.

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
Yes.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
Unaware of the amount, aware that it was large.

Conclusion? Definitely privileged. It seemed "Normal" when I grew up, since my school friends were mostly of the same socio-economic circle, but I'm quite a bit more aware now of how much of an impact it had on my life, and myself.
For instance, it has enabled to me get in the right course of study to have a good job, and be able to save money as I work. Even though I have not needed money from my parents since I started working (which was after I was done with my MS), I was fully dependent until that time. And even now, I don't have to support them.

Interesting stuff.

abaya

01-24-2008 11:02 AM

Thanks for not taking my post the wrong way, GG.

Quote:

Originally Posted by ghoastgirl1

I don't see why everyone expects college students to just drop their plans for HUGE holidays like those.

Just a quick reply/explanation for this: it's because most people (especially in the US) have no conception of having so much time off to do whatever they want.

How many weekdays "off" per year do you get, as a college student? The average US worker (even highly-skilled/educated ones) gets approximately 10 weekdays off per year. No Christmas break, no spring break, no summer break... just 10 days, with some public (1-day) holidays thrown in.

What I'm saying is, spring break isn't a "huge holiday" in most of the world... so perhaps this woman, in her scale of things, did not think she was making a massive request of you to work through your break. Hence her reaction that you are privileged and entitled, at least enough to be able to refuse the job she was offering you. The way she expressed that was not professional, I agree with you about that. But then again, try to understand the bigger picture (socio-economically) of where her remarks are coming from, that's all.

Jinn	01-24-2008 11:14 AM

Quote:

As a member of "your" generation, I cannot believe that you "don't understand the generalization." I think it's perfectly apt, and I'm visibly shocked when I meet someone in our generation who is NOT a spoon-fed over-privileged brat with an entitlement complex - especially in my college cohorts. Think honestly about peers of your age (not just your friends, all same-age peers), and decide honestly if you feel the generalization is unfair.

I get two weeks off a year, and that's exceptional for the average US employee. Being upset that a full-time employee doesn't recognize your atypical vacation schedule as essential seems to hint that you do indeed have privilege that you're failing to recognize.

Bill O'Rights

01-24-2008 11:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ghoastgirl1

B.O.R...I've had plans for spring break for quite some time now. I don't see why everyone expects college students to just drop their plans for HUGE holidays like those.

A vastly different set of values and priorities.

Quote:

Originally Posted by ghoastgirl1

I was not even working yet when she told me what she wanted and that I would have to deal with it. I chose not to have to deal.

Then you have established your priorities, and reacted accordingly. That's the wonderful thing. But, you cannot expect others to respect those priorities. Especially from those of us that weren't afforded the luxury of being able to choose between working, or going to Ft. Lauderdale.

It does speak volumes to priviledge.

surferlove007

01-24-2008 11:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JinnKai

I realized what you meant, should of explained it a tad better. Most of my friends at Texas Tech were either on Scholarship or on loans, and their parents didn't have much to do with paying for their school. Like me they had to work the previous summer to save up for spending money. My parents pay for my school but expected me to work for my spending money.
I see the other people in the different peer groups you mentioned with the really nice things in life like Chanel bags, Gucci purses and all that glitzy stuff. Parents buy them Mercedes etc. I do see those other people who are my peers, I guess I just don't' associate myself with them because those are luxuries I don't have and never had. I have Fendi purses I bought on eBay but I paid for them straight outta my pocket. I suppose the status symbols for the different peer groups are the differentiating part. Not saying I'm ungrateful, on no no. But I see what you mean.

Abaya, thats a good perspective on the vacation schedule. One thing I would like to mention though about this particular situation. When you're looking to hire college part-time students, spring break and most of the other breaks come into play. So it should be expected they'll want the time off. Not all, but those who typically have plans. I just think it would be common sense is all.

Lasereth

01-24-2008 11:34 AM

Father went to college?
No.

Father finished college?
No.

Mother went to college?
No.

Mother finished college?
No.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
No.

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
Yes.

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
No.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
No.

Were read children's books by a parent?
No.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
No.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
No.

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
Yes.

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
No.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
No.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
No.

Went to a private high school?
No.

Went to summer camp?
No.

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
No.

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
Yes.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
Yes.

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
No.

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
No.

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Yes.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
Yes.

You had your own room as a child?
No.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
Yes.

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
No.

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
Yes.

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
No.

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
No.

Went on a cruise with your family?
No.

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
No.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
No.

What is this survey supposed to mean? I don't get it. I have a Bachelor's degree from a state university and I make more than the average American now at 24. Can someone explain how this relates?

Bill O'Rights

01-24-2008 11:49 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ghoastgirl1

When you're looking to hire college part-time students, spring break and most of the other breaks come into play. So it should be expected they'll want the time off. Not all, but those who typically have plans. I just think it would be common sense is all.

See...that's what I was talking about. Values and priorities. To me...if I'm looking to hire a college student, I expect them to be more available for work during those break times.

Plan9

01-24-2008 12:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bill O'Rights

See...that's what I was talking about. Values and priorities. To me...if I'm looking to hire a college student, I expect them to be more available for work during those break times.

Hmmm! Yes, yes... and we don't get those holidays back! GOTTA LIVE IT UP NOW WHILE WE'RE STILL YOUNG AND SEXY.

Funny, I spent some spring breaks (and Christmas and Thanksgiving and New Years and Halloween and summers and winters and whole years) carrying a rifle in-the-fucking-desert. (TM) Us military types? We're a little bitter about that at times.

Somebody please pity me. I'm easier to pity than a spoon-fed, over-privileged brat, right? :D

...

In the words of that guy I can't remember: Kids need to "harden the fuck up."

Suffer: It makes you a better human being.

...

I was building a "home" and had it taken away. It gives you perspective.

Ustwo

01-24-2008 12:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bill O'Rights

See...that's what I was talking about. Values and priorities. To me...if I'm looking to hire a college student, I expect them to be more available for work during those break times.

Ding, ding, we have a winner!

Now I understand college kids who want their break time off to go home and that sort of thing, but then again thats why I wouldn't hire a college kid to do any essential job at my office. Most don't NEED the job and as such will be very unreliable.

You know interestingly when I was dating Mrs. Ustwo she was a college student and working for the University. She had to work over a couple of breaks and thats despite being employed by the University itself.

ARTelevision

01-24-2008 12:52 PM

Hi friends,

It's always best to steer away from over-personalizing threads like this.

I'd say having a keyboard available to type into this box at all indicates a fairly privileged situation.

I see value in this thread moving more toward the direction of perhaps reminding us how privileged so many of us are rather than parsing who is more or less privileged. A lot of that seems like some sort of holier-than-though hair splitting.

In general, we are a privileged lot, more or less - wouldn't you say?

Cynthetiq

01-24-2008 12:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ARTelevision

Yes, just having a access to a computer and internet is a privilege many in the world do not have. I am reminded of it each and every time I travel about the world.

Plan9

01-24-2008 01:08 PM

Thanks for refocusing, ART.

Quote:

Originally Posted by ARTelevision

In general, we are a privileged lot, more or less - wouldn't you say?

Oh, I concur.

I live in a house that isn't made of dirt and enjoy running water and a toothbrush.

Sugarmouse

01-24-2008 05:07 PM

Father went to college?
no

Father finished college?
no
Mother went to college?
Yes.

Mother finished college?
Yes.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
Yes.

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
Yes.

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
yes my father is an author/avid reader
Were read children's books by a parent?
Yes.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Yes.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
Yes.

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
Kind of more as I age
Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
No.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
Yes.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
Yes.

Went to a private high school?
no
Went to summer camp?
no but I hated other kids and didnt want to.

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
no
Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
Yes.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
No, alot was second hand!
Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
yes

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
Yes
You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Yes.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
yes
You had your own room as a child?
Yes.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
tes

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
no
Had your own TV in your room in high school?
A little black and white one mind!.

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
No.

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
Yes.

Went on a cruise with your family?
no[e
Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
Yes.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
yes
I am privaledged, i feel it alot more than others with the same or even more privaledges, but that is just my outlook and always has been..I dont want much for anything__________________

Leto	01-24-2008 06:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Crompsin

Somebody please pity me. I'm easier to pity than a spoon-fed, over-privileged brat, right? :D

...

no way man... you've built character. Pity is useless against such a defence.

MLTHED

01-24-2008 09:13 PM

m0rpheus

01-24-2008 11:53 PM

mandy

01-25-2008 02:57 AM

Father went to college?
Yes.

Father finished college?
Yes.

Mother went to college?
Yes.

Mother finished college?
Yes.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
Yes.

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
Yes.

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
Possibly, I've never counted.

Were read children's books by a parent?
no, i used to read to them to improve my reading skills. and up until i could read i was rather told stories than read stories.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Yes.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
Yes.

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
yes...i'd like to think so

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
Are you kidding? I think my parents were wise in not letting me have one.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
Yes.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
No. I paid everytime i could so that they wouldnt have to.

Went to a private high school?
Nah...

Went to summer camp?
I wish!!!

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
if you count maths lessons on a thursday afternoon?

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
For a long time when it was affordable

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
yeah, but also got a lot of hand me downs

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
Now you are really kidding? hahahahaha...oh please, i'm still walking or catching a taxi.

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
nope, not even today...however there is this one oil painting of a guy that was done with his feet cos he had no arms.

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Yes.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
yep

You had your own room as a child?
yep

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
nope...although i'd begged for one :)

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
Nope

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
Nope. Although, my gran bought me a mini black and white TV for my birthday one year...it was given to the nanny cos she didnt have one.

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
nope

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
Yes.

Went on a cruise with your family?
I wish

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
I wish again

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
well, the school did as an excursion every year we'd go to a different place.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
People actually pay for their place to be heated? What ever happened to blankies? All my parents pay for are electricity(as in lights and stoves, no heating systems) and water.

I grew up very comfortably. I am the oldest grandchild on my dad's side of the family...ofcourse i was spoilt :) but not so much that made me a brat...i was always put on my place which in turn always made me know my place when i even thought about being brattish.

i may not have been born with a silver spoon in my mouth but i feel privilaged cos my mum and dad did their best and still are doing there best for me. they gave me an education, a roof, a bed and my tum tum was always full.

that is a privilage in itself.

Bill O'Rights

01-25-2008 05:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Crompsin

Somebody please pity me. I'm easier to pity than a spoon-fed, over-privileged brat, right? :D

...

Quote:

Originally Posted by Leto

no way man... you've built character. Pity is useless against such a defence.

Well...

He is a character. :D

MSD	01-25-2008 09:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ghoastgirl1

I see the other people in the different peer groups you mentioned with the really nice things in life like Chanel bags, Gucci purses and all that glitzy stuff. Parents buy them Mercedes etc. I do see those other people who are my peers, I guess I just don't' associate myself with them because those are luxuries I don't have and never had. I have Fendi purses I bought on eBay but I paid for them straight outta my pocket. I suppose the status symbols for the different peer groups are the differentiating part. Not saying I'm ungrateful, on no no. But I see what you mean.

I took a quick look at Fendi purses on ebay. The cheapest handbags I saw started at $120-$150. I'm in college, too, and the last time I had that much extra money to drop on luxuries was over a year ago; when I dropped almost $200 on a new camera this year I realized a week later that I hadn't properly balance my account and needed to borrow money from my mom to cover the difference.

My typical pay period involves getting a paycheck every other Thursday and either paying off credit cards that are up to the limit from gas, books, and car repairs; or forking over most of the check to my mother so she doesn't default on the mortgage. If I'm lucky, I'll have enough to get gas to make the 49-mile round trip to school or work each day, 5 days a week plus the occasional Saturday.

Quote:

I'd love to go somewhere nice for spring break. This year, I'll once again look forward to the opportunity to squeeze in 5 full days of work uninterrupted by classes to get a big paycheck that might leave me with enough extra money to go out with friends. Last year I worked the full 40 hours during spring break, the year before when I was in a different job, I worked over 50 from Monday to Friday and took one day off from Friday before to the Monday after, I think I ended up with just over 100 hours in those 11 days. I'd love the privilege of being able to turn down a job because I don't like the hours, but I wouldn't be able to go more than three weeks without a paycheck before the bank foreclosed on our house, the same house my parents bought in the late '70s and still haven't been able to pay off.

surferlove007

01-25-2008 11:22 PM

I didn't spend $200 plus on my purses, I only spent about $75.00 on one that I paid for from my lifeguarding job. I made $75.00 in about 7 hours. Which was about a day plus some extra. I had that kind of money when I was working that great job that paid great. Now...not so much. I don't have the spare cash like that anymore. I also worked 50 + hours a week over the summer making about 9 to 10 an hour.

A lot of people would like the privilege of turning down a job of cleaning up cat poo, but I do have it and I did because it was the best call for me. Think what you like of me being a silver-spooned brat. I'm not, and I know that. Also it was 40 miles of driving a day just for work. No thanks, not when gas prices are on the rise.

It also sounds like my parents are in a different financial situation than yours, they have two mortgages...my sisters house and theirs...and eventually mine. Just gotta get the down payment ready for mine. I'm fortunate to have the opportunity to be choosy about my jobs, but that's just the hand I was dealt. I realize that. I appreciate it.

I don't have a credit card btw. Mom and dad would rather die than let me get one. Until I get a job, I won't get a credit card.

Cynthetiq

01-26-2008 04:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ghoastgirl1

It also sounds like my parents are in a different financial situation than yours, they have two mortgages...my sisters house and theirs...and eventually mine. Just gotta get the down payment ready for mine. I'm fortunate to have the opportunity to be choosy about my jobs, but that's just the hand I was dealt. I realize that. I appreciate it.

that alone is a GREAT privilege to have been given...

Plan9

01-26-2008 05:54 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ghoastgirl1

It also sounds like my parents are in a different financial situation than yours, they have two mortgages...my sisters house and theirs...and eventually mine. Just gotta get the down payment ready for mine. I'm fortunate to have the opportunity to be choosy about my jobs, but that's just the hand I was dealt. I realize that. I appreciate it.

I don't have a credit card btw. Mom and dad would rather die than let me get one. Until I get a job, I won't get a credit card.

:eek:

abaya

01-26-2008 06:10 AM

Hey, I thought Art hit the "reset" button on this thread... what happened to that?

Plan9

01-26-2008 06:39 AM

Heh. Whoops.

I'd say my biggest privilege and simultaneously my biggest disadvantage was growing up left to my own devices. I wasn't told to do a damn thing with my life as a kid.

I did what I wanted up until before the last part of my teen years when I really fucked up.

Consider yourself damn lucky if you were pushed to do things you didn't enjoy.

I lost a lot of time (years) and money (opportunities) from my bad choices back when my age still started with a 1.

...

I appreciate the cushy lifestyle that America offers the middle class but I've paid my own way through just about everything since I put on a uniform back in the day.

...

Hell, everybody has it good if they don't compare themselves to others.

"You're alive, aren't ya?!"

Strange Famous

01-26-2008 08:40 AM

Father went to college?
no

Father finished college?
no

Mother went to college?
no

Mother finished college?
no

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
no

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
no

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
yes

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
no

Were read children's books by a parent?
yes

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
no

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
no

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
I wouldnt say so

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
no

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
no

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
no

Went to a private high school?
no

Went to summer camp?
no

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
no

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
no

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
mostly

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
no

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
no

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
yes

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
well, they had a mortgage...

You had your own room as a child?
yes

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
no

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
no, but then again Im not American so it wouldnt have been much use if I had

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
yes

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
The IRA? WTF? I dont have any mutual funds

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
no

Went on a cruise with your family?
no

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
no

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
a couple of times, yeah

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
central heating is for pussy's

MSD	01-26-2008 09:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ghoastgirl1

A lot of people would like the privilege of turning down a job of cleaning up cat poo, but I do have it and I did because it was the best call for me. Think what you like of me being a silver-spooned brat. I'm not, and I know that. Also it was 40 miles of driving a day just for work. No thanks, not when gas prices are on the rise.

I wouldn't call you a silver-spooned brat, but I think that your environment has somewhat skewed your view of what's privileged. The same thing happened to me during my upbringing; I live in a rich town where it's not uncommon for a kid to get a BMW for heis 16th birthday, so not getting my license until I was 18 and having to borrow one of my parents' cars when they were home and then getting a Buick as my first car seemed really unfair to me. I'm still not thrilled with the fact that I wasn't able to go away to college and still live at home, but at least I had the opportunity for higher education.

At my first job at Radio Shack, I worked with people from the big city next to my town who had to spend two hours taking four buses to get to and from work and lived with three people in a one-bedroom apartment. Once I was out of the bubble of upper class suburbia, I realized just how much I had and was grateful for it. I suspect you grew up in a pretty nice area like I did, and have a perspective like I did a few years ago when I was your age.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Strange Famous

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
The IRA? WTF?

This is now the best post in the thread.

But seriously, in the US it's an Individual Retirement Account.

surferlove007

01-31-2008 01:22 AM

[QUOTE=MSD]I wouldn't call you a silver-spooned brat, but I think that your environment has somewhat skewed your view of what's privileged. The same thing happened to me during my upbringing; I live in a rich town where it's not uncommon for a kid to get a BMW for heis 16th birthday, so not getting my license until I was 18 and having to borrow one of my parents' cars when they were home and then getting a Buick as my first car seemed really unfair to me. I'm still not thrilled with the fact that I wasn't able to go away to college and still live at home, but at least I had the opportunity for higher education.

At my first job at Radio Shack, I worked with people from the big city next to my town who had to spend two hours taking four buses to get to and from work and lived with three people in a one-bedroom apartment. Once I was out of the bubble of upper class suburbia, I realized just how much I had and was grateful for it. I suspect you grew up in a pretty nice area like I did, and have a perspective like I did a few years ago when I was your age.
/QUOTE]

I agree, my environment growing up probably did sway me on my view of the privileges I have however my parents never kept it a secret they grew up in poverty and therefore didn't want us to have to do so as well.
My mom will be on the board of VPs at Lockheed probably within the next few years. She worked her way up, she expects my sis and I to do the same.
I am very fortunate for my parents, we live in a very nice neighborhood in Fort Worth and they're sacrifices have made my life possible now.

As for getting out of suburbia, I know what you mean. Went to Washington D.C. and saw some things I hadn't even dreamed out. 5 roommates in a one bedroom apartment etc. Multiple-family apartments. Life is very different for the privileged youth.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cynthetiq

that alone is a GREAT privilege to have been given...

Yes I know, although once my sister gets married...whenever that happens, the mortgage is entirely in her lap. My grandmother made the comment to my parents that, a house was the ultimate gift to give to your offspring and that she wishes she could have afforded such a commodity for my dad. Same on my moms side.

The same will happen to me. My parents treat my sister and I equally, we drive used, but paid off VW Beetles and we will both have houses before it's all said and done.

abaya

01-31-2008 01:42 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MSD

Once I was out of the bubble of upper class suburbia, I realized just how much I had and was grateful for it.

See, now this is something I would like to avoid (the bubble part) when we have kids. I don't know if we'll be living in upper-class suburbia, but given the degrees and potential joint income that ktspktsp and I have/will have in the future, I doubt we're ever going to struggle with money... and thus, neither will our children.

Some background (which I think will be more informative than the survey in this thread). I grew up in an upper-middle-class home (mostly due to circumstance: my biological father died before I was born), on some property at the end of a dirt-road, with a mixed bag of privileges... we had a nice house and several pre-owned cars, but my dad built the house by hand, and he fixed all the cars himself. We never bought anything new. My clothes came from K-Mart for a long time, because my mom was an immigrant and didn't see any social "stigma" about shopping there (neither did I, until I was in jr. high and encasing myself in my own bubble, wanting nicer clothes like the "cooler" kids). So we were by no means rich/upper-class, but we were comfortably FAR from being poor. My mom grew up upper-class in Thailand, and my step-dad grew up working-class/blue-collar in the US. He's still a manual laborer who works his ass off, no less than 10 hours a day, in his mid-50s. Neither of them graduated from college, but our home was full of books--mostly bought for me--and education was an essential value that they instilled in me. We also traveled as often as we could afford.

Anyway, it was my dad who made me aware of poverty, when I was still pretty young... and I think that had a great effect on me. I was never able to construct a decent enough bubble (which I wanted, so I could emulate those "cooler" kids) to make me forget about what he'd shown me. For example, he knew of an elderly woman living in public housing in urban Seattle... we'd go visit her several times a year, bringing gifts and generally just "remembering" her (she had no family). I remember her room stank of urine every time we walked in the door, and her "apartment" was tiny and rather filthy. My mom hated visiting her, and maybe I did, too... but I'll never forget her reality. She died in her room and no one found the body for 3 days. She had no financial capital, and perhaps more importantly, no social capital.

We also took in all kinds of people to our home, much to my mother's dismay, as my dad has always had a soft spot for people who are struggling to just get by. We even had a homeless guy staying in our place for several months, because our church refused to help him out (he struggled too much with alcoholism and wouldn't get help, though, so we had to ask him to leave). It never seemed terribly strange to me, growing up, but I think it shaped a lot of my understanding of class and privilege for the future. He encouraged me to volunteer all the time, with soup kitchens and the disabled, etc. I never liked doing it--but still, it shaped me.

So, thinking about the life ahead for ktspktsp's and my kids, I know that we two are much more privileged than my own parents were... but I want our kids to grow up with as much (if not more) exposure to different classes and levels of privilege than I did, so that they're aware of exactly how lucky they are from a young age. I'm just not sure how to do that. Does anyone have any other ideas/experiences in doing this? Other than lots of volunteering, I'm not sure what else can be done...

ring	01-31-2008 05:16 AM

I think you can give children a general sense of how life is for those that are
less fortunate, but unless you live it day to day the reality is much different.

My families upper class bubble burst quite dramatically after my father
was in a small airplane crash, when I was 12 years old...he was in a coma
for two years..which he slowly came out of..and he only functions at a very low level now in a nursing home..he doesn't even know who we are..that was 37 years ago.

My mother raised us three girls back in the 70's in the US when it was very difficult for a single woman to obtain credit on her own..
My Grandmother faught for (and Won) custody of my father...long story
that doesn't fit here...but the harsh fast way in which we all had to grow up does, having a lot of money gives a false sense of security for some..
It can and does disappear easier than you think.

One thing my sister does with her children, is once a year
have them choose about 30%of their toys to give away.

Volunteering is a good idea to help build compassion and generosity
but I don't really have any other good ideas at the moment to share,
other than one that might sound sarcastic, but I don't mean it that way..

Spend a week or two with nothing in the house to eat but cold rice
peanut butter and sardines and no television or computers, and the only heat
source is cracking the oven door open for an hour a day..

Heck..even having that much might sound good to some..sorry I don't
have more to add..at the moment..good question Abaya, what can be done?

MSD	01-31-2008 05:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by abaya

The other effect of the bubble on me was the racial divide. In the 1990 census, we had around 56,000 people and 85 black and Hispanic families. My mom never realized how bad it was until I asked her in McDonald's one day, "Mom, is that Bill Cosby?"

At that point, she made a point of helping me get a more diverse outlook on life.

jewels

01-31-2008 06:07 AM

Maybe I'm a little "old school", but my kids (one of 'em is 24) have learned that they can't always have what they want. I give them what they need, never placed importance on things and I guess they're lucky enough to have an aunt (who was unable to conceive) who the does the spoiling and buys their school year wardrobes.

All their friends had Nintendo and Gameboys etc and inevitably my kids asked why we couldn't have one. I never made excuses but made sure they knew these were expensive toys. They played games on the family PC instead and never complained.

I saw whiny brats being bought things at the checkout line to "shut the kid up". What a great way to teach them to keep whining and expecting more. I did give my kids special things when I could. But it was never an expectation. Usually it was a surprise and it meant so much more.

This is just a small example of not necessarily giving them things just because you can. The trick is to teach them what's truly important.

Let them learn to earn and yes, volunteer at soup kitchens etc but don't do it on the holidays. There's less glory and recognition on an ordinary day.

I don't think they have to live in poverty to appreciate what they have. Show them through your actions and teachings. I was raised with a silver spoon and have lived in near poverty as an adult, but my values have never changed. My parents taught me the same.

mixedmedia

01-31-2008 06:27 AM

I think more than being taught that there are people in the world who are not as priveleged as you are, is being taught to care about it. I'm so thankful to my parents for raising me in that old-school, liberal way. And that is the way I have/am raising my own kids. If you teach your kids compassion, then they will see how fortunate they are and they will view the world with heart instead of indifference.

abaya

01-31-2008 08:34 AM

Great responses, all. Thank you. As I was reading, I was also reminded that while I traveled a lot as a kid, I wasn't really exposed to poverty in developing countries. It wasn't until I was 18 and spent a summer teaching in rural Thailand that I learned what it meant to be poor on a whole other level.

Also, when I was part of a youth group in high school, the lot of them (not me) went on a "mission trip" to rural Mexico, and most came back in a state of shock. Most were children of very affluent, evangelical families, and had never imagined how poor people could be in other countries. I am not a fan of the religious part of the exercise, but I would imagine that taking kids to do some hands-on development work instead of another vacation at Disneyland each year would influence them phenomenally.

When I was in college, they had a program where you could sign up to spend a weekend living on the streets of Seattle, living essentially as a homeless person would (of course, the reality isn't anything close to that, but at least it's some way of learning to have compassion). You are given one dollar or so, and sent out in pairs basically (with a cell phone only to be used in emergencies). You have to find places to sleep and eat on your own. Of course, this is a pretty extreme experience, but it had a powerful effect on a lot of kids who would otherwise have never even glanced at a homeless person... and here they are talking, sleeping, eating with them for a few days.

SecretMethod70

02-01-2008 12:13 AM

Author John Scalzi, partially famous on the net for bacon cat and his excellent entry on being poor, has posted his thoughts on this questionnaire. It's worth a read, but to sum it up: it doesn't work particularly well as any indicator of class, and there are far better and more important indicators that are conspicuously absent.

levite

02-02-2008 01:52 PM

Father went to college?
Yes.

Father finished college?
Yes. And Grad school, twice.

Mother went to college?
Yes.

Mother finished college?
Yes. And Grad school, three times.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
Yes. Several.

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
Yes.

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
Way, way, way more than 500.

Were read children's books by a parent?
Yes. All the time. And not just children's books.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Yes.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
Yes. Harp, Aikido, and Writing Workshops.

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
Depends what I'm wearing, I'm kind of a long-haired hippie. Also depends on if I'm identifying primarily as caucasian or as Jewish.

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
No.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
Yes.

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
Yes. My parents. In my house, "trust" was a verb, not a noun.

Went to a private high school?
No.

Went to summer camp?
No.

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
Unless you count the lessons mentioned above, no.

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
Yes.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
Yes, although my mother had a sixth sense for the cheap stuff. She could feel "clearance" signs being put up in stores the way dogs can hear ultrasonic whistles.

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
No.

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
No.

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
No. Mostly we lived in apartments or duplexes.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
No.

You had your own room as a child?
Yes.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
I had a phone, yes, but it wasn't a private line.

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
Yes.

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
No.

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
No. I still don't.

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
Yes.

Went on a cruise with your family?
No. I set foot on a cruise ship for the first time two years ago, at 32, and only because my best friend's dad got a special rate, and it was the QE2, so I couldn't say no.

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
Yes.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
Yes, except in the general sense of "Turn that thermostat down and put on a sweater! Heat is expensive, young man!"

---

Hmmm. So yeah, I seem to have been comparatively privileged. Basically, we had a good, solid middle-class to upper-middle-class life growing up.

I think I'm okay with that.

orionnebula

02-02-2008 06:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jewels443

All their friends had Nintendo and Gameboys etc and inevitably my kids asked why we couldn't have one. I never made excuses but made sure they knew these were expensive toys. They played games on the family PC instead and never complained.

I have to say that I had a lot of privileges, but for the console that was the view from my mom.
They bought me a pc because it will help with school, but for the console was when you will work you will buy one yourself.
I have to say that I waited a long time to have one, but I later realized that the money that would have been used for that, served much better elsewere back then.

kel	02-03-2008 01:45 AM

Father went to college?
Yes.

Father finished college?
Yes.

Mother went to college?
Yes.

Mother finished college?
Yes.

Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor?
Yes.

Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers?
Yes.

Had more than 50 books in your childhood home?
Yes.

Had more than 500 books in your childhood home?
No/I doubt it. Several hundred but not that many on hand at one time..

Were read children's books by a parent?
Yes.

Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18?
Yes.

Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18?
Yes.

The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively?
Yes

Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18?
Yes, wasn't linked to my account though

Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs?
Yes

Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs?
No

Went to a private high school?
Yes

Went to summer camp?
Yes

Had a private tutor before you turned 18?
Yes

Family vacations involved staying at hotels?
Yes.

Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18?
Yes, for the most part. Hand me downs occured where convenient

Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them?
No

There was original art in your house when you were a child?
Yes

You and your family lived in a single-family house?
Yes.

Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home?
Yes, there was still a mortgage but I consider that ownership

You had your own room as a child?
Yes.

You had a phone in your room before you turned 18?
No. Wouldn't have wanted or needed it.

Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course?
No. School had one by default but it was nothing special. I did purchase an electronic course which I think is as good.

Had your own TV in your room in high school?
Yes. (not really but had a computer which is the same in the high school where I went)

Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college?
No.

Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16?
Yes.

Went on a cruise with your family?
No. Could have probably but we weren't into cruises

Went on more than one cruise with your family?
No.

Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up?
Yes.

You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family?
Yes. Go Dad!

I am not George Bush privileged, but I had it all going for me and I needed it.

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