One of my favorite things about going to college on a massive campus is the variety of study spots at every students’ disposal. Though I have many friends who prefer to do homework from the comfort of their homes or dorms, that’s never been me! Here are a few favorite spots, likely not new to seniors but perhaps new to some other folks.
1. Hammel Library in Memorial Union
Great for a cozy late-night winter study session. Since the Union is open pretty late, this was the perfect alternative to Memorial Library or College Library. Soft lighting, a warm atmosphere (read: faint sounds of the piano in the room next door…), and the massive collection of yearbooks on the bookshelves make this spot unique.
2. School of Education cafe and rooftop
Right on Bascom, the School of Education boasts a few public spaces primed for homework between classes. If it’s nice out, the patio on the top floor is a hidden gem (sorry not sorry for revealing this!). On a colder day, the atrium on the main floor has plenty of tables to grind out a quiz or two.
3. Nancy Nicholas Hall rooftop (and first floor bathrooms)
Another outdoor space for those rare 70-degree spring days. I’m a Consumer Behavior & Marketplace Studies major, so I’m in this underrated building daily. The sun gets intense up on that patio. Take a break from studying by making the trek to the first floor bathrooms, famous on campus for their eclectic take on the phrase “nature calls”.
4. The University Club
I love this building for its old-school collegiate feel. Both the porch outside and the cafe inside feel like a sort of living room right off of Library Mall. I love to snag one of the big couches when I’m with a friend.
5. Kohler Art Library
Not far from the University Club, The Kohler Art Library features sprawling tables, plentiful outlets, and a fabulous collection of plants. I find this library is great to take an exam; there’s not a ton of turnover and students tend to sit two at a table, so there’s plenty of room to spread out papers and notes.
Now that the weather is warming up, I’m transitioning from my winter, hibernate-y favorites to my warm-weather patios. I’ve left off countless other spots–there are too many to count.