Austin Community College – Highland Campus

I like the campus. I like that the Highland Mall space is being used.
I’m really not a fan of the giant computer lab downstairs for classroom settings. I’m in a class that is within earshot of two other classes that are being held at the same time. It’s almost impossible to hear my instructor, and very difficult to concentrate. This is not conducive to learning. My instructor records his lectures and puts them online, but it feels really pointless to even come to class if that’s the only way I can actually retain information, watching the lectures outside of class.
This model for hosting multiple classes does not work. I highly suggest the tried-​and-​true individual classroom per class model.

I’m glad that ACC decided to reuse this space which used to be an old department store at Highland Mall. The space could been left unused. But going inside of the campus, you can tell it used to be a department store.
The first floor on the left hand side is a big computer lab where students can write papers or use it for class use. The other side are the admission offices and other administrative offices such as financial aid. Then upstairs is the testing center and different classrooms. The lobby area of the first floor have modern looking furniture and the staircase has layout where there’s a cement staircase on one side and wooden lounging steps with big cushions on the other side.
I’m taking an online course on the History of Graphic Design and I had to go to one of the campuses to take a test. Gone are the days when I could’ve taken the test anytime even at night. You had to take the test when the computer labs are open. The lab monitors were polite and helpful.

Great campus. Everyone seems friendly, good vibe, and the huge learning lab is worth a test drive. Would definitely take more classes at Highland.