[ruswick]

I don't think that systematic relegation of poor people to state colleges is ever preferable, even if it prevents brain drain. We should never artificially limit our nation's lower-class youth simply because it has collateral positive effects in the long term.

Individuals deserve the ability to attain the highest level of success they are capable of, irrespective of any of any effects on society. Students are't public utilities, they're individuals with idiosyncratic aspirations and interests. Why is it ok for society of hold them back?

[Evbn]

Why should anyone in Utah have an desire for someone in NY hands a Utah kid a golden ticket to enjoy in NY? Those Utah individuals deserve the best outcomes they can obtain, and that includes great doctors if they choose to pay for those doctor's education and salaries.

Society is a collection of individuals. Arbitrarily picking some of those individuals to be winners is certainly not any obligation of the rest of the individuals.

[nitrogen]

I'm from Utah, and I would have much preferred to be told that I could actually afford to attend an elite school through financial aid instead of being disappointed by my state school education (though I did have a few great classes and teachers). I took an online class from MITx and the difference was astounding.

The rest of the state has no right to lay claim to my life. If states are worried about brain drain, they should incentivize local development to attract others from out of state (which I believe Utah is doing), not hide the truth from their youth.