Minority Admissions to Universities

Re “Will Brown Faces Again Be a Rarity?” Commentary, April 13:

Jesus Mena seems to be concerned that “brown faces” will decline at UC campuses. Yet, he dares to use the term “diversity” in his writing. It would be nice if Mena would make up his mind. Either focus on the true meaning of diversity and support all needful students, regardless of color, or continue your monocultural (i.e. single-race) agenda on behalf of Hispanics. You can’t have both.

I agree with Mena on the need for diversity in all aspects of life. But diversity at what cost? The continuation of “dumbing down” admissions criteria at colleges. Graduating high school seniors whose grasp of academic basics is minimal. Open your eyes, Mr. Mena, and see the true discrimination that keeps us all down, that of socioeconomics. All that your brand of politically correct racism accomplishes is the continuing balkanization of America, which is a road not well traveled.

ROBERT HERRMANN

Sylmar

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My sincere advice to the black and Latino students in America is to study, study and study. No more excuses. If the Asian students could succeed in American universities without affirmative action, so can black and Latino students.

WILLIAM C. HSIEH

Rosemead

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I do not see what point Shawn Hubler was trying to make in “Making the Grade” (April 13), because if she is saying minorities are discriminated against in the college selection process, she is terribly wrong.

Don’t get me wrong, I am not a racist; but why is Sergio Rivas Ivy League material, yet I am not? I too have an A average, am a member of the track and cross country teams and got a 1380 on the SAT exam. I was recently rejected from two Ivy League schools. What is the difference between my qualifications and Sergio’s? The only thing I see is race, since I am a white, middle-class male.

I would like to end by congratulating Sergio on his acceptance to such a great and prestigious university. It is quite an accomplishment, and I wish him much luck in the future.

SCOTT NEWMAN

Northridge