Chinese families with modest means, children with average aptitude but who are sensible, hardworking, and willing to study—don't get caught up in competitive majors. Learn some practical skills and go abroad. Bring those skills to Western countries, and you can live with dignity and respect.

Accept that the vast majority of people in this world are ordinary. Only a tiny fraction make millions or even hundreds of millions in annual salary in Silicon Valley. But ordinary people with skills live quite well in Western countries too.