[Brilliant]

Here's the thing, Gabriela: You will never need to know algebra. I have never once used it and never once even rued that I could not use it. ...

That's very true, because Cohen is a journalist and Gabriela will probably be a waitress or a manicurist. As long as she can count the tips, she's OK. Leave the heavy lifting like "algebra" to the folks who want to get ahead in life.

[yellowdoghunter]

Gabriela will probably be a waitress or a manicurist.

Is there something wrong or dirty about being a waitress or manicurist? I mean who is going to serve your food and who is going to do my nails?