One was a friend, a Bosnian refugee, who had a hard time accepting it. In an argument at school breakfast, the friend called Carranza a "nasty" name, she says.

She also confided in a high school counselor who made her aware of the tuition law and helped her get into the U.

Even if she graduates from college, Carranza's career options, especially in the government sector where her interest lies, would be limited, if not nonexistent. Passage of Sen. Orrin Hatch's DREAM Act is about the only vehicle that could get her citizenship.

The bill would allow undocumented immigrants who entered the country before age 16 — and at least five years before the law is enacted — to quality for federal college loans and work study. It also clarifies that states may offer them in-state tuition rates.

By registering for college, undocumented immigrants would be given temporary legal residency and could gain permanent legal residency if they earn a college degree.

Of that possibility, Carranza can only dream.

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E-mail: romboy@desnews.com