I think this is an extremely important point. Speaking from experience I used to feel proud that I overcame the obstacles. I also felt angry and resentful at having to work harder than other people. I was young then and "why me, why was I singled out, what did I do wrong" occupied my mind a lot.

Turns out, maturity has some nice side-effects. I came to realize the correct question is, why does any American child have to work a full time job and go to college at the same time? If one student gets a free ride, all students should get free rides. It doesn't matter who your parents are. What matters is that you are an American student and your education is important to the health and prosperity of your country - and every citizen and every business in it.