If you're considering enrolling in their AI Software Engineering program or any of their AI-based courses, here is my honest take on why I left.
1. The Struggle with AI-Based Learning
The curriculum is almost entirely AI-based. You have a bot walking you through the lessons, and while you can ask it to break down complex topics like Python, it doesn’t always work. I struggled specifically with Python "returns" and logic. Despite the bot’s explanations, I found the "correct" answers were often marked wrong, leading to immense frustration.
2. Lack of Program Flexibility
I quickly realized the AI Software Engineering track wasn't for me, but when I tried to switch, I was told the option was "paused." Being forced to stay in a program you don't understand or enjoy—just to keep a scholarship—isn't worth your mental health.
3. Poor Student Support and Customer Service
Human support is nearly non-existent. To speak with financial aid or administration, you have to "battle" a chatbot until it finally lets you send an email. Even then, responses take days. This is especially stressful if you have time-sensitive paperwork, such as SNAP verification or enrollment proof.
4. Financial Aid and Transfer Credits
Maestro uses internal scholarships rather than your FAFSA Pell Grant (which gets sent back to the government). Additionally, they do not accept transfer credits. You have to start completely over with an Associate’s degree before you can pursue a Bachelor’s.
5. Transparency Issues
Many students on Reddit mentioned being able to see their grades and progress, but my dashboard never updated correctly. This lack of transparency, combined with the buggy AI responses, made it impossible to know where I stood.
Final Thought: A "free" MacBook and tuition aren't worth it if the education doesn't stick and the support isn't there. If you prefer human instruction and clear communication, you might want to look elsewhere.
1. The Struggle with AI-Based Learning
The curriculum is almost entirely AI-based. You have a bot walking you through the lessons, and while you can ask it to break down complex topics like Python, it doesn’t always work. I struggled specifically with Python "returns" and logic. Despite the bot’s explanations, I found the "correct" answers were often marked wrong, leading to immense frustration.
2. Lack of Program Flexibility
I quickly realized the AI Software Engineering track wasn't for me, but when I tried to switch, I was told the option was "paused." Being forced to stay in a program you don't understand or enjoy—just to keep a scholarship—isn't worth your mental health.
3. Poor Student Support and Customer Service
Human support is nearly non-existent. To speak with financial aid or administration, you have to "battle" a chatbot until it finally lets you send an email. Even then, responses take days. This is especially stressful if you have time-sensitive paperwork, such as SNAP verification or enrollment proof.
4. Financial Aid and Transfer Credits
Maestro uses internal scholarships rather than your FAFSA Pell Grant (which gets sent back to the government). Additionally, they do not accept transfer credits. You have to start completely over with an Associate’s degree before you can pursue a Bachelor’s.
5. Transparency Issues
Many students on Reddit mentioned being able to see their grades and progress, but my dashboard never updated correctly. This lack of transparency, combined with the buggy AI responses, made it impossible to know where I stood.
Final Thought: A "free" MacBook and tuition aren't worth it if the education doesn't stick and the support isn't there. If you prefer human instruction and clear communication, you might want to look elsewhere.
