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At 12 years old, I thought if I worked hard enough, I could purchase a house. But now, at 18 years old and having almost completed my first semester of college, I identify with the 60% of Gen Z that no longer sees the American dream as feasible. What was once a promise of financial freedom through hard work is now a myth.

The American dream promotes the idea that anyone, regardless of their past, can achieve success in the United States through hard work and determination.

In high school, many read about the concept and were shown the reality of its existence when jobs and homes were more obtainable. Today, with rising costs of living, achieving this goal is more difficult, especially for Gen Z.

The income gaps have changed drastically, and while everyday costs increase, wages........

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