There are the parties, the clubs, the sporting events and the social scenes.

At some point, though, you’ll have to reconcile the fact that college is a place to get a degree, which generally requires some work and studying. So when you’ve settled into campus life and can’t escape the inevitable reality of homework and exams, you’ll want to find places on the campus that help you perform to the best of your ability.

It takes some trial and error, but fortunately, I’ve had three years of experience to tell you the best study and work spots on and around the campus. 

Whether you’re writing a paper, completing an assignment or studying for an exam you’re totally unprepared for, The Diamondback has got you covered.

 

Back of Hornbake basement

McKeldin Library is the beautiful building showcased in all the campus brochures and pictures. But just a five-minute walk away is Hornbake Library, which, fortunately for you, is often forgotten about. 

Hornbake is far quieter than McKeldin, sometimes nearly empty and almost eerily quiet. And few people know about the back of the basement, which has a nice view of a small courtyard and spacious tables to lay out textbooks, laptops, calculators, notebooks and whatever else you may be carrying in your arsenal.

As an added bonus, many of the chairs rock and are big enough to shift positions as you grow tired, bored and irritated with whatever you’re working on. Because of its near silence (most of the time), this spot is best for intense exam studying, lab reports, a long paper due within hours and difficult homework assignments. 

 

Top floors of McKeldin Library 

Everyone flocks to the second floor, which is regularly remodeled and easily accessible. But during midterms and finals, it often feels more like a crowded coffee shop than a library. Those of you who were around this past spring may remember a YouTube video of a student dancing on the second floor in the midst of finals studying.

Few decide to venture to the fourth floor and above, though, which still has the appropriate books-and-desks library feel while maintaining the perfect level of quietness. And you can always walk a few steps down if you’re feeling restless to enjoy a bit of a social scene. 

 

Under a tree/Hornbake Plaza 

Make the most of the late summer and fall months by studying outside. You’ll be the quintessential college student.

The fresh air helps you think more clearly, especially when you need to tap into your creative side while writing papers or completing an art assignment. There’s also the right level of background noise if the assignment you’re working on isn’t too high-pressure, and you have time to take in the beautiful scenery surrounding you.

 

Jason’s Deli 

Thanks to its all-you-can-eat salad bar and complimentary ice cream, Jason’s Deli can be the perfect place to do some casual studying or work. You can refuel as needed and run into a couple friends when it’s time for a break. 

 

Academic buildings 

Chances are your department or college has resources for you to use, such as computers or study rooms in various buildings. Capitalize on these and make the most of your tuition dollars.

For example, I’m a journalism major, and Knight Hall has gorgeous, high windows and beautiful computers with tons of software for students to use 24 hours a day. I’m also a microbiology major, and the science buildings have small libraries and even practice exams available for students to take. 

 

For most of us, our rooms and dorm lounges provide too many distractions. Get out, see the campus and take advantage of everything available to you. And, of course, if you have any other suggestions or find your own under-the-radar spot, let us know!