Until July 4th, the Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream is showcasing U.S. citizens sharing their perspectives on what the American Dream means to them, including Sasha Cohen. She’s the daughter of Ukrainian immigrants, was a silver medalist in figure skating at the 2006 Olympics, and now works as an investment manager in California.
The American Dream, in its essence, is about climbing the social ladder. It’s about doing better than your parents and hoping your children surpass you as well. It emphasizes equality of opportunity, something that isn’t the case in many parts of the world. It’s truly a land of possibilities.
Cohen’s journey is quite remarkable. After competing in two Olympics, she pursued higher education and graduated with honors from Columbia University in political science. Now, she’s carving a niche for herself in investment management at Morgan Stanley.
Being born in America, she had the freedom to explore different sports like gymnastics and figure skating without government restrictions. This independence must have contributed to her understanding of the value of opportunities.
After her Olympic journey, she prioritized education. Cohen expresses a curiosity about the world and a desire to define herself beyond her early achievements. She hopes, when she reaches 60, that she won’t just reminisce about her twenties as the pinnacle of her life. She acknowledges the significant opportunities available in America, attributing this to the strong education system, a culture that cherishes sports, and the legacy of Olympic athletes.
Unfortunately, the American Dream has faced challenges since the late 20th century. The middle class is dwindling, creating stark contrasts between public and private educational institutions. However, there’s a silver lining—today, technology provides unprecedented access to information and opportunity, allowing people to shape their futures in more diverse ways than before.
Cohen’s story highlights how educational and career achievements can lead to a fulfilling life, beyond just the glory of athleticism.
The American Dream Video Project features real-life narratives that shed light on pathways to opportunity. This initiative by the Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream coincides with the celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, aiming to engage visitors with interactive exhibits and stories showcasing how individuals can achieve the American Dream.
