Medina nursing student charged out-of-state tuition rate for classes, phone calls no help

MEDINA, Ohio - Cathy Danszczak of Medina was looking to continue her education in nursing, enrolling at Lorain Community College, but a billing error on her tuition threatened to put a hold on her quest.

Danszczak told NewsChannel5 she was issued a bill from the college for $2,107 on June 6, for classes she took during the fall semester of 2011.

"I suddenly realized my tuition bill was more than double what it should have been," said Danszczak. "Then I figured out I was being charged as if I was an student that lives out of state... I've been living here in Medina for the past 5 years."

Danszczak looked at her online account and determined the college had her listed as living in Wisconsin. The nursing student quickly contacted the associate registrar's office at the college, and was asked to provide several documents to prove she is, in fact, an Ohio resident.

"I sent in the proper documents, and the college confirmed I've been living in Medina," said Danszczak. "But the college still refused to take more $1,000 off my tuition bill, citing state law... They told me it was too late for me to be issued a refund."

Danszczak claimed she was told Chapter 119 of the Ohio Revised Code , section 3333110, stipulated her tuition rate couldn't be adjusted.

"I really like Lorain Community College, I went there 15 years ago to get my initial training in nursing" said Danszczak. "I just want to pay what I owe, and get on with my classes."

NewsChannel5 contacted the Lorain Community College marketing department about this case, and the college responded immediately. The college issued the following statement:

"We appreciate you bringing this matter to our attention. Unfortunately we did have an incorrect old address in our system. Both her address and her account have now been corrected in our system. That information has been communicated to the student through our enrollment and financial office."

Danszczak thanked NewsChannel5 for its effort, and reminded students that they verify their online information is correct at least once a year.

"One bad key stoke or entry and you could be given a bill that could ruin your day."