UC Fees

* Re “Pressure Builds for Steeper UC Graduate Fees,” Dec. 6:

While the economic problems of the UC system need to be addressed, the pressure to significantly increase the fees paid by professional students is highly discriminatory and unfair. I attended a state-supported dental school, and I could not have afforded to do so if the cost was high. In return for the tax money spent on my behalf, the federal and state governments get back every year enough taxes from me to provide the educational funds for 10 undergraduate students. In addition, I contribute to the employment of 25 other people.

The professional students in the UC system will be the employers of tomorrow, in addition to paying a lot of tax. If the state provided professional education free of charge to all students, it would still be a terrific investment for the state. California’s economic fate will be more influenced by individuals with professional degrees than those with a B.A. in English.

STEPHEN SHEPHERD DDS

Tustin