With the semester now in full swing, it can become pretty difficult to balance class, homework, clubs, sports, jobs, a social life, etc. Unfortunately, that means occasionally sacrificing a good night’s sleep in order to pack everything into a day. And even if you are getting a solid eight hours, sometimes you still need a midday snooze to recharge the batteries. But what do you do if you don’t have the time or energy to make the journey back to your dorm or apartment? Don’t worry, there are other options! Pitt’s campus is full of prime napping spots, and I’m here to help you find them!
1. The Cathedral lawn
I’m especially a fan of the side facing Forbes. You know the area behind the log cabin? It has several grassy levels to choose from for your preferred napping elevation. Plus, there are plenty of trees to curl up under if you like shade. When you get chilly, you can just roll over into a patch of sunlight (assuming there we can still see the sun at this point). All in all, this grassy haven provides several options to customize your napping experience.
2. Schenley Plaza
This is another prime location if you’re a fan of the classic grass nap. When the weather’s nice, it can get a little crowded, but sometimes the background noise is nice for lulling you to sleep. Just don’t be surprised if you suddenly wake up to a few dozen people doing yoga around you. It happens to the best of us…
3. The upper levels of Posvar
This is one of my favorite indoor napping locations. Posvar has tons of comfy chairs to curl up in. Make yourself at home and fall asleep to the joyous sounds of bagels being ordered at Einstein’s. The further you go up, the less crowded it becomes, so if you are still a little weary of sleeping in public, take a ride on the escalator!
4. The benches in Cathy
Who wouldn’t want to say they’ve napped in Hogwarts? Sure, the Cathedral doesn’t have a Room of Requirement to produce a bed or a hammock, but it has plenty of long booths and benches on the first three floors that are perfect for nappers that need to fully lay out in order to catch some Z’s.
5. Tansky Family Lounge in the Union
On the main floor of the Union, there are cushiony lounge chairs toward the back in the Tansky Family Lounge. The lighting is pretty dim and it’s usually not that crowded, so it’s a great place to claim as your napping ground.
6. O’Hara Student Center
Couches, big comfy chairs, and some peace and quiet — this place has all you can ask for in a good napping spot. During the day, it’s pretty empty, so, even though it’s more out of the way than some of these other locations, it can totally be worth it to get some much deserved rest.
7. Just about any corner of Hillman
With the exception of the ground and first floors, Hillman is pretty quiet. This is where you should go if you are still concerned with people judging you for napping in public. Trust me — everyone in Hillman would rather be sleeping. There are plenty of single person desks among the stacks to make you feel cozy and safe.
Never underestimate the power of a solid on-campus nap. All you need is a hoodie to ball up into a pillow and some headphones to tune out the world around you and pretty much anywhere can become a bed — the grass, a bench, a desk. Believe me, no one is judging you and a few minutes of shut-eye can really help you refocus. Just make sure to set an alarm so you don’t sleep through your next class!