> I never once said I was self-made

When you say "I'm proof that it works", "it" being the work and choices you made, that's being self-made.

> I have taken advantage of the opportunities laid in front of me

Right. I'm saying you are privileged to have those opportunities. The person cleaning toilets at Wendy's (that was your example) doesn't have professional development opportunities like an accountant. Being the best toilet cleaner gets you more toilets to clean.

> Why would you try to discount the advice I’m giving?

Because it's a view of the world that only applies to a relatively privileged few, and seems insulting to those that are not. The person at Wendy's is far better off trying to attend night school or other education opportunities outside of work. Putting in maximum effort at Wendy's comes at a huge opportunity cost. You should be turning down those extra shifts to work on getting out of Wendy's. Taking advantage of professional development is great for those who have it available, but you tried to pretend this can apply to toilet cleaners.