A survey involving 190 NIU students recently was conducted to determine awareness and usage of the new 708 area code for Chicago suburbs.

The Public Relations Student Society of America, working with Contel of Illinois Inc., 225 E. Locust St., on the area code switch, surveyed the students by telephone and in person.

According to the results, 68 percent of the students surveyed have been using the 708 area code instead of 312. Ninety-five percent of these students reported they have had no difficulties using the new area code.

DeKalb Contel Service Manager Shawn Harms said the problems have been minimal.

“The initial problem in November was that some companies didn’t have their computers set up with the changes,” said Contel Public Affairs Specialist Rachel McKeel.

Thirty-one percent of the students surveyed are still using 312 although it will not be accepted after Feb. 9. “Some people are using 312 as long as it works,” McKeel said.

The survey results pinpoint where efforts to make students more aware of the area code change are needed, said PRSSA’s 708 Coordinator Christine Bennett.

For problems regarding the use of 708 area code, people can call Contel at 1-800-892-9600, Harms said.