Carolyn McWilliams MA Educational Support Services

Unfortunately I can do nothing but recommend that people avoid utilizing Carolyn's "services". From the beginning of the meeting, all of her advice was based off of ludicrous generalizations or false information. A direct quote from her, "Syracuse is full of JAPS (Jewish American Princesses), my daughter went there and that is what she tells me". Beyond the fact that this generalization is highly derogatory towards people of the Jewish faith of any socio-economic background, it reflects a generalization based off of one individuals experience. Much of her so called expertise followed this trend including her denouncing both a well regarded UC and Community College because one of her daughters was apparently unhappy there. Conveniently, she additionally attempted to sell a Gap Year program which charges approximately $4,000 a month, under the auspices of "community service". This is the same cost as spending a full month of travel in 5 star hotels in many of the same regions of the world, and the program itself has mixed reviews. In addition she attempted to sell to us an SAT math tutor who charges $150 an hour. She also attempted to push me towards a college which may not be a good fit, and regardless of fit has a statistical demographic (GPA,SAT,etc) which doesn't line up realistically with my own. She also seems rather ill informed on basic information regarding the viability of utilizing the UCLA extension school as opposed to Santa Monica college, and European Universities. What she said in regards to both topics are false. The UCLA extension school is not a viable alternative because a majority of its classes are either in the evening or hosted online .In addition, contrary to what she insisted, European Universities across the board require AP exams due to differences in diplomas and education systems in different countries, unless they are American Universities operating in Europe which in fact does not make them European Universities. One of the most unpleasant parts of the meeting is the fact that she charges $200 an hour or $800 for a more "comprehensive service". I attempted to reconcile this as I only had one meeting and requested no other services, hence requiring only $200 dollars, yet I paid $800 . Shockingly enough, she has not responded to my attempt at communication. Unfortunately enough, Carolyn appears to lack knowledge in her field and preys on individuals who want the best for their kids, and are unaware of her incompetence. Therefore, I cannot in any capacity recommend her "educational services".