American Dream Response

A Generation Hobbled by the Soaring Cost of College
In Martin and Lehren's article, they address the issues surrounding the increasing cost to obtain a college education and the massive debt that follows. As our nation was developed, parting from an oppressive monarchy, America has been related to a nation where anything is possible, regardless of your financial or racial background. Martin and Lehren's definition of the "American Dream" is to be able to climb the financial latter through obtaining a college education. However, the importance of achieving this goal has cost many students and families massive debt. Though the issue of massive lifetime debt is what two thirds of bachelor's degree recipients, in a survey conducted by the Department of Education (pg.1), it still seems that colleges and society are "requiring" the hold of a college degree. Martin and Lehern's both seem to agree that this serious matter has many contributors and is being passed around like a hot potato. Student loan debt is not what we consider the "American Dream", yet as of recent years, it has become almost a right of passage to secure a college degree.

Millennials Didn't Abandon Our Institutions- Our Institutions Failed Them
Holland's article about the distinct changes between generations and their "enthusiasm" and loyalty towards their government shows how millennials have a common difference between them and passing generations. Since the "silent" generation after World War 2, the patriotisms in America has declined (p.1). Holland's argument is that millennials are growing up in an era where trust in the president is questioned, being that the oldest of millennials grew up with Clinton's sex scandal, and the youngest face mistrust of the governments decisions due to massive amounts of money dumped in congress to lobby for major companies (p.2). I believe the American Dream, from the perspective of Holland, is to be able to trust in our countries institutions and government to work for the people, not just against it. Student debt, a high unemployment rate and the neglect of the problems we are facing are what seem to be in the way of the millennial generation's willingness to trust in their own government and institutions (p.3).