When I was applying to college three long decades ago, it seemed like there was a relative handful of schools that most students at my high school applied to. It was a list that was heavy on the Ivies, heavy on the liberal arts, and sprinkled with "safeties" that included some state schools and small single-sex institutions.

U.S. House Majority Leader Boehner (R-Ohio) praised the House bill to reauthorize the higher education act as opening the door of opportunity for low-income college bound students. Opponents said the bill failed the opportunity to restore cuts in student aid that will make it harder for low-income students to afford a college education.

Last month Congress cut $12 billion out of student aid programs, and interest rates on parent and student loans are set to jump up this July, due to recent Congressional actions. Yet when the House begins its floor debate on the Higher Education Act (H.R. 609) on March 29, it will do little to make college more affordable.

Is our land of opportunity turning into a dead end for Hispanic students who graduate high school college-ready but lack a pathway to legalize their citizenship status?

On March 22 Connect for Kids hosted a Talktime Live! online chat on the Dream Act, with experts on education issues faced by immigrants and a student who will speak from experience.