How Does It Feel to Be Born into an Extremely Educated Family?

Introduction

Being born into an extremely educated family can significantly shape one's emotional and psychological landscape. While experiences may vary widely from person to person, this article explores common feelings and experiences that individuals from such backgrounds often encounter.

Pressure to Succeed

Individuals born into highly educated families may feel an intense pressure to excel academically and professionally. This heightened sense of pressure can lead to stress and anxiety about meeting the high standards set by their family. According to the American Psychological Association, these pressures can be particularly intense among adolescents and young adults.

Access to Resources

Access to educational resources, extracurricular activities, and networking opportunities can provide a significant boost to personal and professional development. Growing up in an educated environment often means being exposed to a wealth of knowledge and opportunities that can help individuals achieve their goals more quickly and easily. This privilege, however, can also bring its own set of challenges, such as feeling constantly compared to siblings or peers.

As the story goes, 'everyone in my family was bright.' My father, an optometrist in the Air Force, had a college education, and my mother, though not formally educated, was incredibly smart and well-read. Our family had a rich collection of books, with Dad's 1930s college texts and Mom's psych courses from the 1950s. Growing up, we were surrounded by a culture of learning and intellectual pursuit.

Value of Education

The value of education in an educated family is often deeply ingrained. Children from such backgrounds tend to have a strong appreciation for learning and intellectual pursuits. This can foster a lifelong love of knowledge and a desire to continually expand one's horizons. My older brother and I ended up in professional careers, either with or without formal degrees, and my younger sister earned both a bachelor's and master's degree in psychology.

Identity and Self-Worth

For some individuals, growing up in an extremely educated family can lead to struggles with identity. There may be a feeling of being overshadowed by the family's accomplishments or difficulty in carving out one's own path. These feelings can be compounded by comparisons with siblings or peers who may have achieved similar or even greater success.

Despite these challenges, family support can be a significant buffer. There might be robust support systems in place, with family members providing guidance, mentorship, and encouragement. These support systems can be invaluable in helping individuals navigate the complexities of their family dynamics and personal values.

Support Systems

On the positive side, the family dynamic can also provide a strong support network. Family members can offer advice, encouragement, and mentorship, which can be crucial in achieving personal and professional goals. This support can help individuals develop the confidence and skills needed to succeed independently.

Cultural Expectations

There may be cultural expectations around education and career choices that can influence personal decisions. These expectations can shape the family's perspectives and attitudes, potentially affecting how individuals perceive their own potential and opportunities. While these expectations can provide a sense of direction, they may also create additional pressure to meet certain standards.

Personal Experience

As Hillel said, 'If I am only for myself, what am I? And if not now, when?' My experience growing up in an educated family, while not 'extremely educated' in the strictest sense, was profoundly formative. Learning was a constant in our household, and I developed a deep curiosity that stayed with me. My exploration into the military led to a habit of learning and a desire to find things out, even when I was far from a traditional academic path.

Ultimately, the experience of growing up in an educated family is highly individual and can be shaped by personality, family dynamics, and personal values. While there may be challenges, the support and opportunities provided by such an environment can be invaluable in personal and professional development.

Conclusion

Whether you are born into an extremely educated family or not, the pursuit of knowledge and intellectual growth can enrich your life in countless ways. The key is to find ways to honor your heritage while also carving out your own unique path.

Keywords: education, family dynamics, personal development