Jaquoia T.
Yelp
Dillard University has such a distinguished history and proud tradition that it breaks my heart to write this review, but I have no other recourse.
I attended Dillard University briefly between 2008 and 2011. Subsequently, I properly un-enrolled after paying all outstanding tuition and fees. Several years later, I sought to re-enroll in another college and finish my degree. However, when I ordered a transcript from Dillard, I was informed that my transcript was on academic hold for unresolved fees.
I was never previously informed that any amount was due, even though I left Dillard with my permanent address (my Mom's house). Of greater concern, even after repeated requests, Dillard has been unable to explain what the purported outstanding fees were for.
I have made repeated efforts to contact Dillard's administration and settle what I now believe must be an accounting error. However, I have been unable to reach anyone with the authority to provide assistance. And while this may be a simple accounting error on Dillard's side, this event severely impacts my life and livelihood. Without my transcripts, I am unable to complete my degree at any accredited institution. As a direct result, I currently face lost potential income and scholarship opportunities.
Worse, as I endeavored to resolve my issue with Dillard, I began to learn about numerous other students who have been treated similarly. A Google search of "Dillard University" revealed many other former Dillard students looking for assistance with a terrifyingly similar set of facts.
I also learned disturbing new data that was not available in 2008 when I enrolled. Dillard's four-year graduation rate is only 5.2% according to College Factual. I also learned that Dillard University's dropout rate is over 50%, by some measures. Its student loan default rate is 15.7%, more than twice the national average. Apparently, Dillard University still has not released data on average graduate incomes.
I really believe in the potential of Dillard University to be a force for good in the times of young people, but my experience has been such a nightmare that for me it has felt much more like a Ponzi scheme.