I heard about Walden University from a friend who came across them online. I spoke to an Academic Adviser a week or so later, and was told I could transfer many of my credits. The Academic Advisor provided me with an "outline" of the courses I would need to take, and informed me that classes started within a month, so I would need to get all of my financial aid forms filled out. I questioned whether I would be able to have financial aid lined up prior to the start date, but she assured me everything would be fine, and that I may receive a bill, but the package would eventually pay for it; no need to worry.
Anyway, class began before I had my final financial award. I kept contacting them regarding my concern, because I did not have the money to pay out of pocket, but was always assured everything would be covered, and I had nothing to worry about.
The first class I was "required" by the University to take was extremely disappointing! Mind you, I am a mother, in my 30's, mid-career, and corporate professional. This class reminded me of something I took my freshman year in high school — it was only a couple of credit hours, and focused on "what do you want to do when you grow up". Completely untransferrable and a waste of time. Cost? $1500 freaking dollars.
Anyway, needless to say, I did not take any more classes. I wasn't going to waste time and aid on classes like that.
I don't hear anything from the University until the next month or so when I received a letter wanting my enrollment again, and stating they would forgive a balance if I enrolled. I didn't think much of it, because at that time, they still for whatever reason, hadn't applied my financial aid.
Then, last month — some 11 months later, I receive a BILL from a COLLECTION AGENCY stating I owe $520.00. Never a phone call from the University, or a letter. I never moved, nor had I changed my phone number or email address. So, as the letter stated, I wrote a formal dispute of the debt.
The next week in the mail, I receive another bill — this time the collection agency tacked on an additional $173.00 in fees. Yet no response to my dispute. COMPLETELY suspicious! And I will never, in my life, recommened this University to anyone. I should have known to wait until I had my Financial Aid package in place, but at the same time, these reps should have some accountability for what they say. Not everyone is familiar with how these things work, and schools operate differently. I'm glad to say I found a reputable University to attend to complete my undergrad.
11 months with not so much as a correspondence, and I get a letter from a collection agency? I'm definitely conerned about their intentions. Had I known and confirmed I owed this debt, I would have certainly made arrangements months ago. I feel as though they took advantage of my situation and did not fully inform me about the program, or provide correct information regarding my financial aid package. Then they tack on $173 of fees in a week? (Conveniently after I write to dispute the debt).
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