U.S. Drops Gaza Scholarships after Israel Travel Ban

http://world.time.com/2012/10/15/u-s-drops-gaza-scholarships-after-israel-travel-ban/

Is it fair that the educational rights of students are infringed in order to protect them?

Preventing students like Amal from studying in the West Bank can have negative affects on the few programs in the area, by giving the schools a bad reputation and limiting the number of applicants. 

The other debate is the issue of safety. While students view the U.S.’s decision as unfair, it may be the safest option. Due to the debate over the fate of the West Bank and Gaza regarding independence and the threat of Hamas, it is a good idea to suspend scholarships for now, but not completely. It is a shame that students are penalized for Israel and Palestinian territory’s political controversy.

Does Israel need to be so dependent on America? America often feels the responsibility to involve itself with other countries. Why is America sponsoring programs in Palestinian territory?

Amal's case is not the only instance of political conflict regarding college admission. Recently in Texas, Abigail Fisher was denied admission because of her lack of racial diversity. Amal and Abigail were both very qualified to attend their schools of choice. While one case had to do with protection from the danger of traveling in controversial territory and the other involved the issue of affirmative action, both situations are about political impact on education.