<p>Liquidis, Sakky, CalParent2008, and Loche: yes, I also agree that Harvard (and other private schools) give out the most insane amounts of financial aid I have ever seen. However, I think we must be aware of the quixotic perspective of privates…</p>
<p>Sure, we can all tell low-income students that HYPS gives out great fin aid, but that is really only if you get into one of the 1000 slots at their school. And let’s face it, a majority of those students will never step foot on those campuses. </p>
<p>On the other hand, if your goal is to provide tens of thousands of Californians with the best education at the most affordable price, then UCs are the way to go. Keep in mind I said “Californians”, not just anybody. While I do agree that it sucks for OOS students who pay so much, I must also realize that these schools were built to provide higher ed for Californians.</p>
<p>Don’t get me wrong: I love this school for its diversity. I think it adds a whole dimension to my education here because people with different socio-economic backgrounds have VERY different opinions about society. I have met people from probably every sector of the world: from people from the ghettos of America to people who are daughters of Parliament and princes of African countries. I am just afraid that with the rising costs, we won’t be able to keep up with this diversity that I think makes Berkeley so beautiful.</p>