In response to Colin McLafferty's column yesterday, I would like to make a few points.

I am a native of Northern California, where our economy thrives with the help of illegal labor harvesting our grapes and other agricultural products. Without these people, we would lose a significant part of our economy, as would Pennsylvania and other states that use illegal immigrants to perform tasks otherwise left undone. The majority of illegal immigrants will not be taking advantage of the new law allowing them to attend a UC.

Even though tuition is a meager $7,000, if you are paid under the table and often unfairly, how will they afford this?

And, unlike you and your brother, loans are not an option for them due to a nonexistent credit situation and other missing pieces of the application such as a Social Security number.

I would also mention that it is everyone's choice where they attend school, and excuses such as "I don't know where I'll come up with the money" are often just that. Excuses. I had no idea how I would finance my education, but I knew Penn State was worth it when I applied. And I fully knew that I would be charged significantly more being an out-of-state student. And, I have found a way.

I would also hope that you being "forced" to obtain higher grades was for your future as well, not just for scholarships.

Everyone on the East Coast needs to take a step back when looking at California politics and realize that they are trying to give people opportunities and improve their lives. These people are valuable, and California sees that. It's time everyone else did too.