On Feb. 24, students gathered through Zoom to meet with Bisi from Izizwe Dance Studio, stationed in Lawrence Massachusetts. The goal was to learn more about Black History Month and culture. Students learned different dance moves and routines while the cheerful and traditional music played.

Stephanie Haskell, the student life coordinator explains more about how the event came to be. With the help of Maria Hernandez, the international student coordinator, the plan became a reality. She says that things needed to be different from the normal lecture or a movie, and so she asked herself, “What can we do that is interactive?” She gained inspiration from other colleges and her Haitian friends.

Haskell  thought it was a great way to experience the culture, and students agree.

A student at NECC called Emma Atwood, age 20 who is studying criminal justice says, “The reason I joined this event is because I love getting involved in all virtual events that NECC has to offer.” She expressed that she feels as though she learned a lot about African culture.

Atwood said the same ideas Haskell shared about making events more interactive. She said, “All the events held are through zoom so there’s not many active activities that can be done.” She mentioned how in the past NECC held virtual yoga and zumba. “I definitely think we should have more events like this!”

To any students still hesitant to join events and that feel shy, Atwood said “Join as many events as you can! You’re gonna meet some of the best staff and classmates at NECC!”