Tammy and the Family

During the last week in Sociology, we watched a film called People Like Us. This film showed a lot of ways people are stereotyped and given us an inside look at many family's economic situation. One specific family that caught my attention and made we want to act in a helping manner, was a family in Waverly, Ohio. Tammy, the mother, and her two sons live in poverty. Growing up, Tammy was one of 22 kids and lived in the same such environment as she does now. As Tammy starts explaining her boys, she tells us that one of them tries extremely hard, receives awards, yet thinks he is too good for their family, because he strives to become an architect or lawyer.
My opinion on this boys goals, are that he should keep trying. I would extremely encourage him to try his hardest and continue to push toward his goals. Although some people may say that, due to his financial state and role models, he doesn't have a chance at success, especially at the level he is striving for. The quote that I think sums up all the feelings and emotions that I felt when I heard this kids goals is, "Success is when preparation meets opportunity." To me, this quote says, that is you prepare and wait for your opportunity or are given a chance, you will find success.
One of the major goals for most people as they grow older and strove for what they want, is that of the American Dream. The American Dream is a very broad, yet great achievement for someone. I feel that Tammy's son's chances at succeed are at about 65-70 percent. I feel this way because he has the determination and it seems as though he is preparing himself. Although that can be said, I think that his chances are lowered due to the fact that he comes from a poverty-stricken family and really doesn't have anyone to help him get to where he wants to be. His mother is not a good role model and also, discourages him from everything he wants.