Settling Into Dorms
JCC Students Enjoying New Residence HallsBy S. Alexander Gerould agerould@post-journal.com
Article Photos
When students first moved into the dormitories at Jamestown Community College, snow was the furthest thing from their minds.
With summer winding down in late July, local and state dignitaries gathered with college officials in front of one of the buildings to officially open the structures.
''Welcome to certainly one of the most exciting days for JCC,'' Greg DeCinque, the college's president, said at that time. ''This certainly signifies a new direction for JCC.''
Now, almost a full semester and almost three months into the academic year, college officials are still excited about the opportunities the new dormitories have offered the college.
''I believe, all-in-all, they've gone quite well,'' said Eileen Goodling, JCC vice president and dean of student development. ''There hasn't been anything that's happened that's been out of line or extraordinary so we're quite pleased with that.''
Students Kayla Crosby, Abby Coombes, Kayle Gordnier and Kristie Gibbs didn't know each other when they first moved into their suite on the top floor of one of the dormitories. Now, the foursome have become close friends.
''I only live 20 minutes away, but I love being here,'' said Ms. Crosby, a Russell, Pa., native and early childhood education major. ''It's nice to be a part of the dormitories.''
With a stack of DVDs next to a television, a refrigerator with brightly colored magnets and notes on it, and a snowboard in one corner of the suite's common room, Ms. Coombes said she was enjoying her experience living on campus.
''It's amazing,'' she said. ''I love being away from home.''
The two facilities feature suite-style accommodations with single or double bedrooms, full kitchens, living rooms and bathrooms. They also feature wireless Internet access, phone service and cable television. Inside the suites, there is a sofa, end tables, lamps, a coffee table, a kitchen table with seating for four, and desks and chairs in each bedroom.
''The dorms are nice because they're not like college dorms at other universities,'' said Beth Moyer of Gowanda while walking with friends into one of the dorms. ''You get the full experience of living on your own.''
With space for 220 students in each building, Ms. Goodling said there are still rooms available for the upcoming semester. Those interested in additional information may contact Harry Watters, JCC director of residence life, at 338-1188.
''Reports have been really positive. The students like suite living, seem to be getting along with each other,'' Ms. Goodling said. ''Not only is it that they're nice residence rooms, but it's a nice social tone that's been set. From my perspective, it's gone very smoothly and it's been a great endeavor.''
Quote: ''The dorms are nice because they're not like college dorms at other universities. You get the full experience of living on your own.'' - Beth Moyer, JCC student and Gowanda native.
