Brooke Burkhardt, a freshman studying Neuroscience, shares childhood dreams and the realities of career choices. Despite passions for fashion and writing, she opts for a more financially secure major. Her dream world seems unimaginable, contrasting with the harsh effects of reality.

This audio recording was submitted for the Voices of UD 2024 audio essay contest for students, hosted by the University of Delaware's Center for Political Communication. The Voices of UD project is open for all to participate, but the annual contest is open to UD students only. The views and opinions expressed by the contest participants do not necessarily reflect the views of the University, its administration, or faculty. Learn more about the CPC's programs and initiatives at www.cpc.udel.edu. Visual editing created at https://app.wavve.co/.