A St. Louis Park family got an urgent letter from College Admissions Assistance last month. The family's college-bound daughter, who was identified by name, was "scheduled to participate in an educational group presentation followed by a personal interview to help determine college admission and financial aid eligibility."
The family was given two dates for an interview, and it was indicated that "you need to attend in order to receive assistance in making critical decisions that will arise in the next few months." Both parents were invited, but "at least one parent or legal guardian must attend with your student."
The letter was signed by Brenda Watkins, "director of student services" for College Admissions Assistance. Nowhere does the letter actually disclose what this Arlington, Texas-based institution is: a for-profit company that holds the free workshops so it can ask parents to pay nearly $2,000 for advice on how their kids can get into college and land financial aid.
The Better Business Bureau in Fort Worth, Texas, gives College Admissions Assistance a C- rating. The BBB has logged 48 complaints against the company, including concerns about "questionable and high pressure sales tactics," among other problems.
Marilu Kernan, chief marketing officer for College Admissions Assistance, said that number represents a tiny fraction of the customers served.
"I wish we didn't have any complaints, but clearly the picture painted by the BBB is not accurate," she said.
Kernan said she was puzzled that Whistleblower found the letter's language misleading.
"In regards to our marketing approach, our workshops have successfully educated many families on the college process and our method works in making sure we have an educated family client," Kernan said in an e-mail. "Our follow-up surveys with families that don't enroll indicate that they appreciate the knowledge they received at the workshop."
