# The Impact of a Harvard-Inspired Upbringing on Academic Success
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Chapter 1: A Humble Beginning
I was born into a modest one-room apartment, lacking even a flushing toilet—more akin to what you might find in rural areas of 1990s Communist China. Despite the humble surroundings, my home was brimming with books. My mother crafted small paper cards to introduce me to Chinese characters when I was just a couple of months old, ensuring I could read by the age of two. This was the essence of my "Harvard mom."
There was always a lesson to be learned, and my mother made it a point to teach me something new. Interestingly, she never praised my accomplishments.
It wasn't until I arrived in the West that I frequently encountered phrases like "good job!" and "you did your best!" In contrast, my upbringing was steeped in high expectations—so high that they seemed almost unattainable.
Section 1.1: The Nature of Child Psychology
Child psychology is a complex field, particularly because it involves adults trying to understand the thoughts and emotions of children. My mother often remarked that a child's mind is remarkably adaptable and surprisingly resilient to stress. With a strong foundation of love, you could potentially encourage your children to reach their highest capabilities.
Subsection 1.1.1: A Mother's Love in Action
Section 1.2: The Team Effort in Education
How did I know my mother truly cared for me? She worked tirelessly. College admissions are a collaborative effort. A young child, while still naive, is observant, and if everyone involved isn't giving their all, the child may lack the motivation to exceed expectations.
Who was the one scraping ice off her car on frigid -5°C mornings to make it to work? My mother. Who helped me assemble countless colored paper pieces for my third-grade art project? My mother. Who stayed up all night to assist me with my IB Calculus modeling assignment, despite having work early the next day? Yes, my mother.
Chapter 2: The Unique Mother-Child Bond
Every family has its own dynamics, and the bond between a mother and child is particularly distinct. My mother wasn't flawless, yet she instilled the motivation and self-discipline I needed for academic and professional success. She led by example and consistently pushed me beyond my limits.
The first video titled "A Day in My Life as a Harvard Student Mom" provides insight into the daily routines and challenges faced by a mother pursuing education at Harvard while balancing family life.
The second video, "A Weekend in the Life of a Harvard Student Mom | Ramadan Month Edition," showcases how a mother manages her academic responsibilities during a significant cultural period, highlighting the interplay between education and family.
As you embark on the college admissions journey, remember that the bond you share with your mother (or child) will be more crucial than ever. Soon, this chapter of your mother-child story will transition into a new and beautiful relationship.