The American Dream is the ability to pursue brighter opportunities freely. It means taking risks, leaving behind everything familiar, and building something new from the ground up. Born in Mexico, raised in New York, and now living in Waterbury, Connecticut, the presence of change has lingered behind my every step. My parents brought me here in pursuit of the American Dream. They knew that the American Dream may not have been for themselves but for their children. They understood that their sacrifices would create a foundation for me to obtain a higher education, contribute to a working society, and eventually build a life of my own in this country. The American Dream at its core is about sacrifice. My parents gave up all they had for the hope of something better. However, it is important to note that the American Dream is not simple. It is not only about working hard and succeeding. It comes with obstacles. My parents worked long labor-intensive jobs for little pay. They saw this as an opportunity while others may see it as a struggle. They knew that their hard work would set me up for a future with greater opportunities. This would be true for my brother who was born here but because I was brought here at the age of 3, I faced obstacles to obtaining a college education and a job. Thankfully, I was able to acquire a working permit allowing me to work and afford my college classes but before those 9 digits, the American Dream seemed impossible in my eyes. My status at the time made simple milestones overwhelming. I still remember the distress I felt during my senior year of high school, unsure if I would be able to afford college. I felt like a burden and a failure because those around me were able to apply without worry. But I knew I had to find a way because of the sacrifice made. It was here that I learned that the American Dream did not mean that everything would be handed to be but rather I was gifted the foundation to work for my future, something that may not be found in other countries. I mention this because the American Dream looks different for everyone. To me, it looks like taking advantage of small opportunities and molding them to something bigger. It also means having to work through challenges in the way of those small opportunities. Although to some the American Dream may be outdated and possible no longer attainable due to socioeconomic barriers, it remains real in my family. It is not about succeeding financially but about hope that a bright future follows hard work.