<p>“However, if the kid’s parents are new immigrants (especially Asian Americans, who happen to be not particularly poor), without ANY exception, the kid will attend one of HYPSM if (s)he is lucky enough to be admitted to such a school.”
-Very much agree with this observation. Many examples of these in D’s Med. School class (predominantly Asian). Another example - granddaughter got accepted into very selective HS (73% Asian) in NYC. When I asked what colleges she migh eventually consider, she said many in her future HS will consider HYPSM, but she believes it is a very expansive option (proud of her being so mature, but she also has a great example of our D. who also very willingly went to public state and still claims it to be one of the best decisions she ever made). So, granddaughter is planning to work very hard to avoid HYPSM, she does have a plan, she is talking to people, including some teachers (in regard to their own kids).
The funny part is that one of the reasons (tiny part) why D’s Med. School wanted her was that Dean of admisiion has graduated from D’s UG (my assessment, D. has mentioned that he still appreciates her being there). You never know, but following your own reasons and then do your best at any place seems to be working time and again.</p>