Beneatha's conflict with Walter comes to a head in this scene when Walter tells her that she is not going to be able to go to medical school. Walter is upset because he has just lost his job and needs the money that Beneatha would have used for school. Beneatha is devastated by the news, but she refuses to give up her dream. She tells Walter that she will find a way to pay for school, even if it means working two or three jobs.
Beneatha's determination and strong will are admirable, and she is a symbol of hope for African-Americans who were struggling for equality and opportunity during the time this play was written.