Raya Almahameed ’28 is an Asian Studies major on the Pre-Law track at Furman University. She was selected as a finalist for the 2025 Riley Institute student op-ed Contest for the following piece, in which she responded to the question of whether the American dream is achievable and how younger Americans can achieve it. She is also involved in the Furman Young Democratic Socialists of America, the Muslim Students Association, FUNC Radio, the Sexuality And Faith Exploration Club, and is a Knight Life columnist for The Paladin.
I used to believe in the American dream like I used to believe in unicorns. Wholeheartedly and without concern. As the years have passed, I have been made aware that unicorns don’t exist, and the American dream isn’t what it seems. I define the American dream as the opportunity for upward mobility in the United States, open to anyone willing to work hard.
Now I see the American dream less like a steady stream leading those willing to pick up a paddle, and more like a rapid with systematic obstacles directly impacting people based on identity, class, and luck. But the American dream doesn’t have to be an inaccessible pipe dream. Gen Z Americans here in Greenville can begin to affect change to make the dream more achievable by taking these steps:
- Engage in Greenville 2040
Greenville 2040 is a comprehensive plan that guides policymakers’ decisions to keep the city on track. One of the easiest ways people in Greenville can start to have more of a say in these policies is by engaging in opportunities open to the community, such as project preview meetings, to impact Greenville 2040 directly. In fact, a survey on economic development is open to the community members on the Greenville website right now!
- Build Social Capital
Social networks can be the key to economic mobility for many people. Greater social capital leads to strength and trust in the community and social support for people. To help build it, we can start by individually connecting people to opportunity and engaging in cross-class interaction. In doing so, we can desegregate low-income classes and raise the reach of economic mobility and opportunity for all.
- Change and Shape Policy
The clearest route to help make economic mobility accessible to all Americans will be through policy change, specifically, through the government investing in lowering poverty rates, raising school quality, and increasing affordable housing. Monitor when these topics come up in the local legislature and engage with the people in your community when they do.
In addressing economic mobility at the micro level, we can begin to benefit everyday Americans and help reignite the American dream for all. And unlike unicorns, we can make it a reality.
