Out-of-state students’ elitist reputation unfair

TO THE EDITOR:

I think I can safely say that out-of-state students do not inherently think themselves above in-state ones. The thought had honestly never entered my mind until earlier this year when quotes started running in The Daily Tar Heel from in-state students to this effect.

 I incorrectly thought that I came to UNC from California to get a top-notch education and to collaborate with some of the greatest academic minds in the country.

Obviously this was incorrect because according to my fellow Tar Heels, my main motivation was my wish to be able to smugly walk into class and spend the entire time lording my “extra 43 points” on the SAT over my peers.

I love my home state, but I wanted to be a Tar Heel more than anything, and that’s why I’m here, and that’s why I am already facing years of repaying student loans to remain here.

I welcome free and fair discussion of the tuition hikes, but please stop constantly attacking out-of-state students as if we’re some alien group of elitist monsters.

You’re already taking my money. You’re not entitled to my dignity as well.



 Arima Claypool

 Sophomore

 International Studies and Environmental Studies