Pros and cons of attending North Carolina A&T University?

I've been considering applying to North Carolina A&T University in Greensboro and would really like to hear some feedback about the school. What are some of the pros and cons I should be aware of before applying?

North Carolina A&T University (NCAT) is an esteemed school, particularly renowned for its strong programs in engineering, agriculture, and business. It's also a Historically Black College and University (HBCU), which provides cultural enrichment and fosters a tight-knit community. However, like any university, it has its own set of strengths and weaknesses.

Pros:

1. Strong STEM and Agriculture Programs: NCAT is nationally recognized for quality STEM education, particularly in engineering and agricultural fields. Their engineering program is the largest among HBCUs.

2. Cultural Experiences: As an HBCU, NCAT nurtures a strong sense of cultural identity and belonging. This fosters a supportive community where students can thrive academically, personally, and socially.

3. Active Campus Life: NCAT has a lively campus with over 100 student-led organizations. Opportunities range from greek life to leadership councils to professional societies, facilitating personal growth and skill enhancement.

4. Participation in ACCelerate Program: ACCelerate is an interdisciplinary STEM festival set up by Atlantic Coast Conference to showcase creative project ideas, thereby providing a platform for students to exhibit and expand their innovation.

5. Career Services and Corporate Partnerships: NCAT has strong connections with many businesses, including Fortune 500 companies, which provide robust internship and job opportunities for students. Their career services are dedicated to student success and placement after graduation.

Cons:

1. Location: Although Greensboro is a reasonably sized city, some students have felt it lacks the vibrancy of bigger university towns, which might impact your off-campus experience.

2. Class Sizes: Some students have expressed concerns about large class sizes, especially for introductory and popular courses, which may limit personalized attention from professors.

3. Limited Major Choices: While NCAT shines in specific areas such as STEM and agriculture, the university offers a somewhat limited range of majors. If you have interests in less traditional or specific fields, like marine biology for instance, this might be a constraint.

4. Housing Concerns: Some students have raised concerns about the quality of dorm facilities. These include issues around maintenance and room size.

Ultimately, the choice would depend on your personal preferences, academic focus, and future career aspirations. A campus visit could also help you get a sense of the campus life and city vibe, and might be a good way to assess if NCAT is the right fit for you. Remember, every student's experience is unique and what might be a con for one person could be a pro for another!