I am from a similar ethnic background as you, but I've always had a bit of a rebellious streak in my family (though the rest of the world would consider me a goody-goody). Although I care about my parents' opinion deeply, I'd still choose to do my own thing. It's because I know that my parents love me no matter what, and even if they are upset with me, they will eventually come around as they can't handle not having a relationship with me. I've previously chosen a degree they didn't find useful; I've previously chosen a partner they didn't want me to be with.. etc. It was hard going against them, but I did. Yes, they were hugely upset and made incredible drama and stink about it for months, and tried to manipulate me in all ways to get me to change my mind... it was highly dysfunctional. But I stuck my ground as I refuse to be controlled like that, and they eventually accepted my choices. Unfortunately the choices I made weren't the right ones for me (as both the prior degree path and the partner didn't work out), and I accept that they were right all along - as they knew better for me than I knew for myself. Nonetheless, I don't have regret for choosing what I did. It's better to stand your ground and go down a wrong path (presuming you really believe you are on the right path at the time), rather than just be a puppet to your parents and let them live your life for you. Although I wish I had more insight into myself to have chosen more appropriate paths, I don't regret living my life on my own terms at all, and I'd do it again in a heartbeat. It doesn't mean I don't love my parents, but I can't live someone else's life... I need to live mine.
(My comment is not directed to you, Shan, I'm just writing in general to anyone of our background.)