NSCC has two campuses: Lynn and Danvers. This is a review for Lynn…read more
The commuter rail is right across the street, so it's convenient for people who don't have cars-- or for people who have cars but don't want to drive in the snow. Since I live in Gloucester, the train schedule isn't ideal, but it's better than nothing. My first semester, I took a night class that ended around 9pm. Unfortunately, this meant I had to wait until 11pm to take the train home. The school is technically closed by then, but I got to wait inside until I had to leave. I actually wasn't worried about my safety, but the campus police were more than happy to walk me over and keep me company until I got on the train.
It's kind of strange how different presentations/activities are done in the cafeteria, but I guess they just use the space they have. I saw someone talk about the Netherlands, which was kind of interesting, but most of the people hanging around the caf weren't there to listen to the guy talk.
I love the library. I spend most of my time at school sitting there. There are a couple areas with fairly comfortable couches, little cubicles with lights/outlets to plug in a laptop, and desks where groups can study.
I'm a big fan of the small class sizes. For the most part, I've loved my teachers. Most of them are more than willing to meet for extra help if you want it, and they really do want you to succeed. The quality of the class, of course, depends on the individual teacher. Some classes are, in my mind, high school level, but if you want a challenge, you can find it.
Oh, and if you really want to step out of your comfort zone? You can cross-register with any one of ten NECCUM schools, which includes Gordon College, Endicott College, Salem State College and others. Doing this actually costs the same amount as registering for a class at NSCC. Neat, right? I sure thought so. I haven't done it yet, but I hope to register for an Italian class in the fall. (The downside is that many employees at NSCC have never heard of this, so you have to insist that it exists. Here's some information: http://www.northshore.edu/registrar/neccum.html)
I didn't want to go to NSCC, but you know what? It's not so bad. I'm saving money by completing classes I would've needed at a four-year school anyway, I'm building confidence by earning good grades at a not-so-intimidating school, and it's somewhat close to home. I don't know if I'd recommend it to EVERYONE, but it's really the best thing for me at this point in time.