North Carolina Central University
Durham, NC, USA

Reviews

North Carolina Central University

A Proud Eagle from Raleigh, NC

a current student here
37 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Most teachers are passionate about their jobs and they love being at North Carolina Central University. Teachers are always available outside of class to offer you help whenever you need it. There are also so many other resources to use on campus whenever you feel that you are falling behind in your studies
Am enjoying being here
There are so many organizations and clubs to join on campus that there is no reason why anyone should ever be bored or not enjoy being here. There are also plenty of parties, sporting events, forums, or anything else always going on. There are other schools around that you can visit as well.
Bang for the buck
This is a really inexpensive school and this school offers plenty of scholarships and work study's for students.
Tips for prospective students
Don't get caught up in the party life and hanging out all the time...if you do you will end up paying for a real expensive party (tuition). I don't believe that any party is worth $4,000-$5,000. Also, learn to make friends and don't sit in your room all semester or you will miss out on a lot of fun opportunities. Any college student will tell you: COLLEGE IS WHAT YOU MAKE IT...if you want to have a good time then you will versus if you sit in your room all the time, then your college experience will be realllll lame!
Great for these types of students
NCCU is great for any time of student. This school has something to offer to everyone no matter your skin color, religion, race, or sexual orientation. Everyone is bound to fit in and make something of themselves.

Justine from Raleigh, NC

a current student here
17 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
First tip: Get to know your professors and don't be afraid to ask questions. That's what they're there for.
Am enjoying being here
NCCU always has lectures, plays, athletic events and more, so to try and take part in whatever you can to help you enjoy the college experience.
Bang for the buck
After scholarships and grants, the costs of tuition and books should be extremely manageable.
Tips for prospective students
Study hard, then have fun.
Great for these types of students
Anyone with an interest in learning.

Monique from Pineville, NC

a current student here
11 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Being a student here, it is required to take a Dimensions of Learning class that teaches you about the history of NCCU and you begin working on a portfolio of your resume and practice cover letters. The first year you get most of your core classes out of the way, and it gets easier as you go along. The teachers are doing a great job and are very helpful outside of class.
Am enjoying being here
Like most people say College is what you make it. I personally don't like to go to parties, but if that's your scene then there are parties almost every week and weekend. If you're like me, there's still other things to do on campus like play cards, pool, and just hanging out in the multipurpose rooms, along with a lot of programs about different topics.
Bang for the buck
I think the in-state tuition is very affordable and there are a lot of resources for any issues you may have or incur so it's all worth it.
Tips for prospective students
Don't procrastinate and there is no excuse to not have your homework in on time because you are given a syllabus of all of your assignments on the first day. The only thing is unlike in high school, teachers don't remind you when assignments are due so you have to be very responsible and on top of your work.
Great for these types of students
Students who have great school spirit and are very involved in extra curricular activities.

Raven from Huntersville, NC

a current student here
10 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
North Carolina Central University so far has provided me with the tools to succeed in the world of law. As a current sophomore who has just finished my first semester, I do hope that my second semester will continue to go as i had hoped. Teachers at NCCU do look out for you. From experience I was given the opportunity to bump a Psychology grade up one letter. Not only are they willing to work with you, but they do give you a fair amount of time to complete assignments. Lastly, I will leave you with this. You will learn everything you will need to continue into you major courses. Whether that be public speaking, or writing a speech. NCCU will ensure you are well equipped with those skills.
Am enjoying being here
When I first got to North Carolina Central I was very, very nervous, because I was not sure what to expect. So far with one year, and a semester under my belt I have since over enjoyed my stay at Central. As a current member of the Screaming Eagles Organization on campus my sophomore year has been 10 times better than my freshman year. I recommend anyone to choose North Carolina Central University to get the full experience of attending a Historically Black College/University (HBCU)
Bang for the buck
Though North Carolina Central University's tuition is higher than most other HBCUs in the state of North Carolina you do see the ways in which the money is being distributed. Not only have they built a three story state of the are cafeteria, but a new bookstore, parking garage, School of Nursing, and residence hall are being built to relieve pressure off of other dorms. Books are also available. Since I have been here there has not been a shortage. NCCU will also give back to the students by allowing us to sell back our books at the end of each semester receiving half of the initial book value in return.
Tips for prospective students
I will give the same tips to prospective students, as my family. friends, and church members gave to me. Never go in with the mindset that college is time to let loose. Doing that could put you into an academic mishap, which could result in not being able to continue due to lack of academic achievement. I will also say this, NCCU's financial aid office is always crowded the day of move in. I recommend that if you are getting any financial assistance that you take the necessary measures early. Once students receive access to NCCU Banner/MYEol that is the best way to keep track of financial aid. Lastly, have fun, but not to the point your grades suffer.

Kaneesha from Angier, NC

a current student here
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I am learning a lot of new things and I becoming very mature and more independent. The school is amazing and the professors are great.
Am enjoying being here
I am very conservative and I don't really associate with anyone because I am having some bad experiences. Overall I enjoy the college life.
Tips for prospective students
Stay focused and remember that you are in college to be a student first. It is okay to socialize and hang out but don't forget to do your work. It's OK to be different. Remember that getting behind on your work is easy, it's the catching up that is hard. Schedule to meet all of your professors so that they know you by face not just name.
Great for these types of students
Anyone who is ready to learn and is willing to do what it takes.

Alexis from Woodbridge, VA

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
NCCU has a friendly and family like environment. The campus is beautiful and full of history. It is currently in the top 10 HBCU list at number 9.
Tips for prospective students
If you plan on going to NCCU be prepared not only for traditions in the term of events but also a great variety of classes with some of the best professors.
Academic Rigor
Academically NCCU is how you make it. Each class has its own sets of challenges. The course load is entirely up to you and if you enjoy a challenge you will definitely find it here.
Dorm Life
The best freshman dorm on campus is Eagleson residence hall which is male and female. It is comunity style with two bathrooms per floor.The best sophomore dorm is Chidley hall which is a new residence hall on campus and it is beautiful. It is suite style and you and your roommate share one bathroom. For juniors and seniors as well as grad students you can stay in Ruffin, Eagle Landing or stay of campus at level 51. Each one of these choices are set up like apartments so there are 4 rooms, two bathrooms, and a kitchen.
Food and Dining
The food is pretty good and has great variety. There is an international station which serves omelets for breakfast and has something different everyday for lunch and dinner. Every Wednesday is chicken day for lunch and fish on Fridays.
What to do for fun
NCCU is a very active campus. There is always something to do. Of course there is football and basketball season which is a very energetic time on campus. Every weekend there is definitely a party somewhere either on campus or at the nearby clubs.
Bang for the buck
For out of state central can be expensive but if you become a Residential Assistant is makes it easier. Also financial aid is good as long as you get it done as early as possible.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
There are so many traditions on campus including 2 concerts for homecoming, late night breakfast, and a water fight at the end of the spring semester.
Great for these types of students
If you are an energetic student who loves culture and history NCCU is for you. Even though it is a historically black university there are different races on the campus who enjoy learning and living black history everyday.
Clubs and Activities
There are so many clubs and activities on campus that i cant even list them all. I can tell you that there is something for everyone. Every school has a club, there's Student government, the student activities board, and so many more that veryone can find something that interest them.
Greek Life
I am not Greek but from what I've seen the Greek life on campus is amazing. they are supportive to each other and their university as well as the surrounding community.
Campus Safety
The campus is pretty safe there are emergency light everywhere on campus plus an actual police office across from the dorms. they have 24/7 cops on site that can be reached at a specific number.

Ari from Camden, NC

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Academic Rigor
The classes at Central are great. The teachers really care about their topic and they want all their students to succeed. The difficulty level and workload of the classes are exactly what one would expect from college. If you want to be challenged academically, Central is a good fit for you.
Dorm Life
The dorms on campus have everything you would need inside. Each room comes with a micro-fridge, wardrobe, dresser, and desk (of course). There's quite a bit of living space so you won't feel cramped or trapped in the room, and you and your roommate (if you have one) can move around comfortably. Bathrooms are well kept and cleaned every morning. And, there are multipurpose rooms in most dorm buildings and game rooms in a few others.
Food and Dining
Personally, I'm not a fan of the food in the cafeteria and I avoid eating there when I can. But that's not to say all the food is bad, there are choices that are good. The salad bar has fresh fruits and deli sandwiches every day and that's all I really eat when in the cafeteria. Also, there's Chicken Wednesday and Fish Friday for fans of chicken and fish.
Campus Safety
It's difficult not to feel safe on campus. Campus security has a noticeable presence and they strive to make sure students feel safe at all times. There are emergency posts everywhere on campus and security regularly patrols all around. If anything is ever recognized as a potential threat on or near campus, security immediately sends out an alert to notify students and sends another when the situation is resolved.

Adarian from Raleigh, NC

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Overall, this is a very nice school. I was hesitant to attend at first because I went to a PWI (predominantly white institute) for high school although I am african american. I truly have enjoyed my experience at NCCU and will continue out the rest of my education here.
Tips for prospective students
Make sure you get your financial aid taken care of first thing! You can not blame anyone but yourself if you aren't proactive. Its COMPLETELY your responsibility to take care of business. Make sure you develop a relationship with your professors and peers, a positive one at that. Take advantage of all the FREE tools, seminars, mentoring programs, tutoring etc available on campus.
Academic Rigor
This varies by your major. I am currently a Biology/Pre-Med major and I;ve compared the work load to neighboring Duke students and its just as rigorous if not more. Being a HBCU professors stress academics more than anything else.
Dorm Life
I never stayed on campus because I'm from Raleigh. I have had friends whom I've visited who enjoyed their dormitory. They are mostly renovated and clean. Chidley (an upperclassman dorm) recently got a gold medal because of its exceptional quality.
Food and Dining
It is college food but the cafeteria people try to make your dining experience enjoyable. They all have different personalities. It is buffet and there is a variety of foods each day. However, there are certain days specific food will be sold. Also, once a month theres a premium night where it ranges from oriental to lobster/seafood.
What to do for fun
Often theres a common misconception that there's nothing to do on campus. There's LOTS to do on campus if you mingle with people or join clubs. The Student Activities Board also holds weekly events to get people involved
Bang for the buck
Great school for pricing when you consider all that is available. If you don't use the resources given to you, then it definitely won't be worth it.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Aggie Eagle Classic ( Rival Football Game/Homecoming)

Predawn ( 11pm-6am) event/party

Week of Welcome
Great for these types of students
Looking to better yourself in a great environment. Also to enjoy a balance between a social life and education with people more than willing to help guide you.
Clubs and Activities
There are sooo many to name you can definitely find one that has something of interest to you or that caters to your major. If not, theres a lot of advisers who will support you in creating one.
Greek Life
We have a big greek bowl and recently one of our sororities won the step off championship in Charlotte this past year.
Campus Safety
Every campus has their own safety issues we definitely have ours. I don't feel unsafe walking around campus. If you're aware of your surroundings, not bragging about your valuables, and not parked in a sketchy area you will be fine. I've never had any problems personally; however, the people who have 70% of the time put themselves at risk.

Kwame from DUDLEY, NC

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Great inexpensive school for first generation college students. Excellent focus on academic scholarship. Staff are generally willing to help you if you express a need for assistance.
Tips for prospective students
Remember to bring things to make your room feel like it is yours.
Academic Rigor
There is a minimum GPA requirement of 2.0 to stay enrolled in school.
Dorm Life
Not all dorms are built the same. Some of the older buildings take some getting used to when it comes to size and comfort-ability levels. Newer dorms are equipped with kitchens as well as private bathrooms.
Food and Dining
The cafeteria offers a variety of different food choices. Including an international line, beef alternatives and vegetarian options. Dining option also available in the student union and an on campus store.

Olivia from Joliet, IL

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
This school is amazing. So much school pride, it's contagious! There are many opportuities for studetns to get involved on campus.
Tips for prospective students
Study first, party later! Make sure you turn in all forms before they are due, and make payments before deadlines!!
Dorm Life
You meet new people and experiance living on your own.
Food and Dining
Chicken Wednesday and Fish Friday...the lines are longgggg!
What to do for fun
There's always something going on. During the beginning of the school year, there are a lot of parties.
Bang for the buck
Eagle Pride..AMPLIFIED!
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
When I need to think, I always go down to the greek bowl and just listen to the fountain. It's very peaceful and calming.
Clubs and Activities
There are too many organizations on this camus. A lot of community serivce opportunities as well.
Greek Life
We have all 9, and they are full of pride. Step shows are the best!
Campus Safety
Police are everywhere, especially at night.