El Centro NEIU

Small little commuter campus.

I have been coming to El Centro, which is a satellite of Northeastern Illinois University for many years. Northeastern Illinois University-​El Centro Campus is the University’s academic center for the Latino community but of course it is not limited. The Center boast many classes in the structure and also houses Aspira, which of course is a sort of private high school above. It has a nice (actually two) computer labs that has enough MAC’s to make your head spin. Although they are starting to gear away from PCs, which of course the student body loves, but there are a few.
A small vending machine area in the back of the building can get that in a hurry student, a coffee or chips so have your change handy. The Professors are usually okay with students eating in class, since they are aware that many of the students are older professionals who are either getting another degree or just people who work during the day and don’t have a chance to grab something on the outside, as I like to call it.
Parking can be a challenge but if you follow the website, you will notice that there is parking available near one of the senior centers towards the back. Although its a block and a half away, still, its nice not to fight for parking. And of course the senior center has security. Although I have «heard» that break ins for vehicles happen in the street, I’ve yet to witness it myself, nor do I care too. You can park directly in front of the building but if its a weekday and between 4 – 6 pm, be mindful that you may get a ticket but after 6 pm, you are definitely good to park. And if you don’t mind parking on metered parking, then directly across the street is your best bet. Chance are if you come early enough, parking shouldn’t be the biggest issue. But it is first come first serve, and if you park in the lot, you need to have an NEIU sticker.
Some of the classes are not always available so check with your catalog. But remember, this place is super friendly, and every semester there is a new vendor who sells fast food type in the front.