College Counselors

In response to “UC Applications Hit Record High: But number of African Americans and Latinos seeking admission falls” (Feb. 5), I would encourage you to look not only at the effects of Prop. 209, but focus on a key ingredient in the college admission process-- guidance.

For low-income minority students, the role of college counseling is critical. Yet in the last three years, California has cut counseling resources almost 25%.

Survey after survey underscores the importance of counseling resources in the schools for low-income minority students. Middle-class students have other places to turn for this kind of support. But for the minority student, school-based counseling is more pivotal. California would see an increase in minority applicants to the University of California system with a greater investment in guidance.

ESTHER B. HUGO

College Counselor

Westchester High School