Student financial aid is a major education industry. Three papers by educational professionals are presented as points of comparison. "Student Financial Aid Policies and Programs in Texas and California: A Comparison" (Stephen Janes) states that Texas and California have much in common; demographics in the two states are not radically different; college-going behavior of White, Black, and Hispanic students in both states follow similar patterns; both states maintain low- or no-tuition policies for public colleges; and Texas tends to finance its grant programs from increases in tuition at the institutional level. "Student Financial Aid Policies and Programs in New York and California: A Comparison" (Charles Treadwell) discusses the changing populations of New York State; competing demands on the state budget in both states; a history of higher education in New York State; student financial assistance in New York State; and the coordination of state and federal roles. "Higher Education and Student Financial Aid in the Pacific Rim" (Edward St. John) focuses on the two-way trade with Asian countries in the Pacific Rim and its relationship to California's recent economic development; the educational needs of Pacific Rim countries and their relevance to California; and the building of new kinds of partnerships. The document contains 39 references. Tables are included. (SM)