Do I really have to give you special attention just because you're a doctor, engineer, or professor? Come on. I get it—we all came from a poor country and worked hard to build a life here in the U.S. You've done well in your job. Good for you.

But is that the only reason you expect people to notice you—especially when you go to a party?

Some people introduce themselves by saying their job first. That really surprises me. What do you want me to say? “Wow, you work at Kaiser Permanente? That’s amazing!” Or maybe, “You have a Ph.D. and work at NIH? Oh no, let me clap for you.”

Well—congratulations on your success (yes, I’m being a little sarcastic). But what does your job have to do with the meatballs at the party?

Honestly, I’m more interested in finding the waiter with the wine glasses. I’m just trying to enjoy my third round of drinks—not your life story.