Oh, and on your last point... My parents, especially my dad, were furious! Not only did I go to college, I made honors and didn't get a degree in anything they valued (my family is largely blue collar workers and I was stepping out of line). If rubbing it in your parents face is what motivates you to succeed then you best graduate with honors! The actual rubbing of the diploma in their face is optional... and by the time you have your PhD you will likely have other things to do with your energy.