Your Arab parents definitely brag about these achievements

Parents brag about their kids' great achievements. It's a normal part of life. They gave life to you, and you brought functionality to that life ... that makes them proud.

The problem with Arab parents is that they brag about everything you do. Yet, they don't praise you. To you? You could still do better. To their friends? You are basically the sun, the moon and the stars.

Here are some of the brag-worthy stories your parents share with their friends.

If you're a good student in school, you can probably make sure your parents' friends know about it. If you're an honor student, your picture is probably up on your mom's Facebook page, sharing how proud she is of you.

To your face? Your mom is asking you why you're not a "distinction" student.

Getting into college is a pretty significant achievement. But, your parents won't care about it unless you get accepted to the university of their  choice ... while still being close enough to home either to live at home or for your mom to check on you daily. Wlek, bravo!

Congrats, you're either a doctor, an engineer or non-existent.

Mama: "Eh binti am taamel pre-med" Me: "Mom, I've graduated and I have a bachelor's in journalism."

Bonus: If you're doing your master's, no matter the subject, you are once again reborn to your parents. Happy re-birthday.

If you love to read, or have learned piano, expect your parents to be super proud. Listen to your mother rave about how you can finish a book in a day, or how your father expects you to play a sonata every time guests come over.

When the guests praise you, how are you to respond? Yes, thank you, I've been reading since I was 2? Yes, my parents paid for those piano lessons?

A first job is a pretty big deal. A first job in Dubai means you're set for life. Congrats, you are now the favorite child.

You should also prepare to have bucket-loads of money and a mansion by the time your parents plan their first visit, because that's what they've told their friends, who are expecting a photo-shoot.

If you can cook and you're an Arab woman, you're pretty much ready to be married. And your parents will bring it up at every chance they get.

I can't cook, at all, but once I made garlic bread. My mom has told everyone  about the garlic bread ... and how apparently, it was to die for.

Considering your parents have been trying to get you married since you hit puberty, it's really more their achievement than yours. Congratulations though! If you have siblings that are unmarried, you are now on a pedestal.

Wave to the lowly underlings.