What do you think of this grant that's being made available to undocumented students?

I am not even sure how I feel about them getting in-state tution. I have very mixed feelings on the topic. I guess I actually support the grant more than I do the in-state tuition. Grants are probably given to international students, so why not undocumented students. But, in-state is based on the family having had paid into the tax system of the state.

Well, it was established with a gift from the Evelyn and Water Haas Jr. Foundation, so I imagine the trustees specified what it was to be used for….it doesn’t have anything to do with government funding.

On the one hand, some people rant that the undocumented aliens are here just to get a free ride off of our welfare system, but those same people rant when they want to get an education to become productive members of our society (not referring to you @JLeslie.) Can’t win for losing, can they!

That’s the thing. If the grant is with private money they can specify who it goes to.

I’m not one of those people bitching illegal aliens are using the welfare system (I know you aren’t directing your statement to me, I am just adding to the conversation) and I also know some undocumented workers actually pay into the tax system by using false social security numbers, but many don’t. Many work under the table. Their children are educated with our tax money in primary and secondary school. I can’t fathom sending someone “back” to their country if they basically grew up here, and I do think allowing them to have an education is important for society.

I am a big believer in providing a college education to the poor for free to the best of the best academically. I see it as a great loss to the individual and the country for someone who is brilliant and wants to pursue academics to be deprived of it because of monetary obstacles. However, I am not in favor of loans and grants being handed out to students who really cannot keep up, and might do better in a vocational program or as an apprentice. I’m sure at UC Berkley the students are very capable.

”However, I am not in favor of loans and grants being handed out to students who really cannot keep up, and might do better in a vocational program or as an apprentice” I agree, but that could apply to everyone not just undocumented people. Plenty of Americans default on their student loans. (I’ve been paying mine off since 1993)

Absolutely. I meant for everyone regarding the grants and loans.

I wish they had technical schools more readily available in smaller towns. To get to one, you have to travel 60 miles.

@Dutchess_III Do the high schools have some programs near you?

Not that I know of.