Although the American Dream seems centered on helping different people find their purpose in life, they often go through hardships and struggle to a point of where they might get discouraged. Even though there are some difficult obstacles, in order to achieve a successful American Dream, I recommend that High Schools should provide support systems that will help build self-esteem amongst individuals who struggle with the ups and downs of life. Providing the right support to young people will help them achieve their American Dreams as adults.          

One way that Boston Massachusetts gives back to the people in need is by providing many different ways to help people improve their self-esteem while also providing them with recommendations on how to find their path toward their dreams. According to the author Greg Rosalsky in the article Why the American Dream is More Attainable in Some Cities than Others, “At ICW [InnerCity Weightlifting] through our career track in personal training, we help create economic mobility for people in our program as they begin earning $20-$60 per hour training clients from opposite socioeconomic backgrounds,” writes Jon Feinman, the founder and CEO of the nonprofit gym. In other words, this program is teaching them the skills that will help them to achieve financial independence. Community groups like IWC will support young people when they need it.  That way these young people will be more prepared for the future.   

Following the ICW model, why not create this type of environment in our own high school? In order to achieve this goal I recommend following the same approach as IWC. By taking step by step instructions slowly adapting you’ll be able to build up a more financially independent and successful future. With these modules and the right guidance, high school students from The College Academy can learn skills  that’ll help boost their self esteem and prepare them for the future.  Programs like PGC (Peer Group Connections) offer just this type of academic and emotional support.  Here is some more advice for people looking for emotional or academic support:  

1. Learn to trust by joining a group activity that is of interest to you.
2. Build confidence and ambition by interacting with others in that group.
3. Engage in a social network by building relationships and nurturing their development
4. Work with a career coach to identify financial stability and career pathways.

Anyone who identifies with these steps can help themselves by creating a contract with someone who cares about you and understands your struggles.  Following this plan and joining a supportive group like IWC or PGC will ensure more people will achieve their American Dream.  

Franklyn Rodriguez has had struggles throughout his life that sometimes would impact his self-esteem.  But no matter what others thought he kept moving forward leaning on the correct guidance from both peers and school staff. Mr. Rodriguez has learned from his struggles and wants others to heed his advice, “ Choose your paths wisely and don’t act on false assumptions from those who treat you with respect and guidance towards a brighter future. Keep on pushin!”