Assignment 2-2 Icon Analysis

I chose three icons which for me represent the myth of the American Dream. These three icons are the competitive reality shows “Project Runway”, “So You Think You Can Dance”, and “Top Chef”. “Project Runway” is a competition of fashion designers. The fashion designers receive projects to test their multifaceted design skills both individually and in team settings. The winning designer is given one hundred thousand dollars to design their very own fashion line. On the show “So You Think You Can Dance”, contestants are comprised of dancers from various backgrounds and styles. Dancers are assigned to learn and demonstrate new dance techniques partnering with fellow contestants. The victor receives a grand prize, often including cash and perks toward the dancer’s future prospects in dance. Lastly, “Top Chef” is a contest of culinary skills. Chefs prepare varying dishes that are judged and the champion is given a cash prize along with opportunities to progress their culinary career.
All three contests have commonalities of obtaining the American Dream which is why I selected them. Americans seek recognition, satisfaction, and success. The sought attributes can be achieved by the contestants. The idea is that no matter the dream, individuals have the chance to learn, work hard, and succeed. There are no losers in the contests. All contestants take away the experience of a lifetime, an experience of growth, and doing what they love. The winners take away the ultimate prize and the heightened sensation of achievement.
I thrive on achievement. To me, the American Dream represents the chance to meet whatever personal desire one has in life. This means that it does not matter where one came from, only where one wants to be and if that person is determined enough to get there. American freedom permits individuals to strive for goals. This is not to say that there are not obstacles in life such as bias and social inequality. If one can overcome the obstacles, the individual idea of American Dream can be acquired. Growing up in an environment where opportunity was not plenty has made the American Dream significant and cherished by me.