Have you or anyone you know been affected by the economic mess? My brother and his wife have had pretty stable jobs for a while, but I don't know if they've had any salary changes. Aside from the cost of their upcoming wedding, they've actually been doing pretty well. My mom, however, works in a school as an aide, and she constantly hears about possible staff cuts. As for me, I haven't had a job, but the tuition has gone up a bit since I started college, but luckily I have financial aid to cover that. I am concerned about what will happen after I graduate and try to look for a full-time job.
How much does gasoline cost per gallon in your area? It's just barely under $4, at about $3.89 and $3.95 at most gas stations around here.
Do you believe "the american dream" is still possible? I think to some extent yes, but nowhere near the level that it was believed to be when the idea was first created. I think nowadays success depends more on who you know and what kind of connections you can get. Nothing is guaranteed and qualifications don't seem to hold the same merit that they did in the past.