Ball State University students were asked to summarize the American Dream in one word, and then explain their answer. With a variety of responses, student perceptions of the American Dream vary.
Noah Matchett, junior
“The American Dream is an ideal. And, although sometimes it doesn’t seem like it’s always obtainable, I think there’s always the opportunity to make a way for yourself.”
India Potter, senior
“It’s kind of outdated. A lot of people come to America expecting something and they don’t get it the way they expect to.”
Aliyah Velez, sophomore
“Everything drives money. People freak out about going to college because they want to make money in the future. But then they end up in debt. It’s almost like a contradiction. I think the American Dream is to be financially stable—which is to have enough money just to be able do what you need, but also to do what you want.”
Alexis Miller, freshman
“I feel like it’s people working to make themselves better than their family was. So wherever you come from, you want to be better than that.”
Daniel Spencer, freshman
Lexi Belmontes, freshman
“A lot of people come here looking for success, to fulfill their dreams, and to get jobs and become successful.”
Julian Simmerman, sophomore
“I don’t think it’s obtainable for everybody.”
Caroline Owens, freshman
“I think if you work hard enough, everyone can achieve their own sense of the American Dream.”
Victoria Carr, freshman
“I feel like you get different opportunities [in America] and you have more chances to become something that you want to be.”
Jazmin Cook, sophomore
“Here in America, we take what’s ours. If we want something, then we go after it.”
Savannah Graham, freshman
“You come to America, and you can do anything you want with your life. You have endless potential.”
