By Emilija Sarma
Location, location, location. It can make or break a study session. Some prefer a steady stream of chatter in the background, while others need their study spot to be completely quiet – whatever helps you get focused. We asked around and got suggestions for excellent study spaces on campus from U of A students. Find your ideal study spot and get inspired to get those assignments out of the way, get started on that project, or finish that paper once and for all!
Check out our list below and maybe you’ll find a new favorite place to soak up the knowledge.
THE SPOT: The Honors Lounge in Gearhart Hall
WHY IT WORKS: Kristen, a freshman Journalism major, picked this spot because it’s a “nice, comfortable space” where everyone is focused on what they’re doing. You won’t find a lot of distractions here, and the atmosphere is extra cozy. For Kristen, a little background noise is a welcome addition to her study sessions, so even if there is a little bit of chatter in the study lounge, it doesn’t pose a problem. You can expect this space to be moderately quiet.
STUDY TIPS: Kristen always makes sure to put her phone on the “Do Not Disturb” setting to help herself stay on track and avoid the temptation to respond to her friends’ messages or check Instagram.
THE SPOT: The Fourth Floor of Mullins Library
WHY IT WORKS: The desks near the windows that overlook the Chemistry building to the south is Sergio’s favorite place to study. Sergio, a Fulbright Scholar and PhD student in Cell and Molecular Biology, likes this space because it’s quiet and secluded, yet has a lot of light and a gorgeous view of the campus.
STUDY TIPS: What helps Sergio stay motivated? “Coffeeeee!!!” As he puts it, it gives him “the will to gain more knowledge which leads to better opportunities in the future.” Many of us can relate! If you ever need a caffeine boost, there are coffee shops on almost every corner of the campus.
THE SPOT: The Center for Multicultural and Diversity Education (MC) at the Student Union
WHY IT WORKS: The MC is a great place to study or relax in between study sessions because of its welcoming environment. Damien, a junior majoring in business, enjoys spending time at the MC because it is full of friendly faces. There is a sense of community and togetherness at the MC that helps students feel at ease. Damien also likes the space because it is never particularly loud and, as an added bonus, there is always free coffee and sometimes snacks available to fuel your next study session.
STUDY TIPS: Asking for help is sometimes tricky but the friendly folks at the Multicultural Center make it easy to reach out. Damien says that the people he meets in this space are always nice and give pretty good advice on all types of things.
THE SPOT: Coffee shops around campus—Arsaga’s, Hill Coffee Co., Peabody Perks, Einstein Bros Bagels
WHY IT WORKS: Coffee shops are an excellent place for studying not only because they can get you through an assignment with a caffeine boost, but also because of their chill atmosphere. Ryan, a grad student in History, likes the subtle background noise of coffee shops like Arsaga’s. If a bit of noise of a social setting puts you in the right headspace for work—a coffee shop might work for you, too. Plus, all of our on-campus coffee shops have a good number of power outlets, which is crucial if you want to get work done on your laptop!
STUDY TIPS: Studying is not an activity that will just happen organically—you have to schedule time for it! Having a regular study schedule and tracking how much time you take to study will help you get in a routine and stick to it. Ryan says it’s equally as important to take time off from studying and schedule breaks in between—it’s all about maintaining a balance.
