THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Thursday, November 24, 1994 TAG: 9411220008
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A18 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Short : 41 lines
As a graduating high-school senior, I am interested in all articles regarding scholarships. I was disturbed by the Nov. 7 news article concerning minority scholarships and how the issue has divided white and black students.
I am not against all minority scholarships, but I disagree with the news of some of the quoted students. ODU student Gwennatta Majette said the scholarships are necessary because, ``We don't live in a perfect world.'' I am a white female, and I would like to know when I have ever lived in a ``perfect'' world. Was Ms. Majette implying that in my world everything goes wonderfully?
Hardly. My family has suffered a host of hardships in the past several months that have made my dream of going to my first-choice college questionable.
Kim McNair was quoted, ``It's easier for white students,'' concluding that white students have more connections and, ``If they can't get money for college, their father can make a phone call.''
I am part of a military family. While we have lived here for several years, we have no relatives here nor any college connections. I am the first woman in my family and the first of siblings to be attending college.
I resent being told that I will have anything ``easier'' this year than any other student seeking college aid. I have always worked hard in school and will continue to, just as I will continue spending countless hours on my weekends filling out applications for any financial aid that I am eligible to receive.
I understand the need for minority scholarships, but I wish the students receiving them would refrain from glittering generalities to reason their need.
CLARE SEAGRAVES
Portsmouth, Nov. 7, 1994 by CNB