Happy finals season, Wolverines! Have you found your perfect study spot yet? After four years of papers, projects, and exams, I think I can finally say that I’ve tried nearly every study spot on campus. They are all different, so it depends on what vibe you’re going for. Do you like it silent, or do you need a little background noise to help you focus? Does a sweet treat help you lock in? What kind of work are you doing, and is this a comfy couch study or a serious table study? Whatever your needs are, I’ve got you covered. Here are a few of my very favorite University of Michigan study spaces:
Collaborative spaces
Winter Garden at Ross
If you like studying in the middle of the action, the Winter Garden at Ross is for you. There is never a dull moment or shortage of friends (who may or may not distract you from that econ problem set). The Winter Garden tends to be very busy during peak class hours, so you might have to be strategic about finding a spot. If you want your study space to be full of activity and life, and you don’t mind a little bit of noise, check out the Winter Garden at the Ross School of Business.Â
Vibes: Energetic
Seating Availability: 5/10
The Ugli
The Shapiro Undergraduate Library (or Ugli for short) is maybe the most classic study spot on campus. Known for its many floors with different vibes, the Ugli has something for everyone. Did you know that you can book private study rooms at Shapiro for your group project? The Ugli is a great place to meet for a fun group study session with friends, or if you feel like a little background noise helps your focus.Â
Vibes: Lively
Seating Availability: 8/10
Studying with snacks
Michigan Union
The Michigan Union is a great place to go if you feel like your study session needs a sweet treat. It’s centrally located on campus, so it’s rarely too far of a walk from your next class. With food options like Panera Bread, Panda Express, and Sweetwaters, you’ll have plenty of choices to fuel your next big assignment. The Union has plenty of seating availability across several floors, so you don’t need to worry about finding a spot to sit. Choose from a variety of cozy couches or stable tables, depending on the nature of your work.
Vibes: Academic
Seating Availability: 9/10
M-36 Coffee Roasters
M-36 is conveniently located on South University Avenue, right next to East Hall. M-36 offers coffee, matcha, smoothies, sandwiches, pastries, and more! It’s a great place to study if you like the vibes of a coffee shop. The only downside to this location is that there isn’t a lot of seating, so you may have trouble finding a place to sit. Check it out if you want to get something to eat or drink, and don’t mind rolling the dice on seating availability.
Vibes: Cozy
Seating Availability: 3/10
Lock-in zones
Law Library
The Law Library is potentially the most gorgeous place on campus. The beauty of your surroundings might inspire you to do great work on your next assignment. The old wooden chairs and tables contribute to the castle-like aesthetics, and the table lights give the room a warm ambiance. But remember, this study space is silent, so it is definitely not the right place for a group meet-up. The Law Library is perfect for solo study sessions that require intense focus.Â
Vibes: Ethereal
Seating Availability: 7/10
Michigan Union Study Lounge
The Study Lounge in the Michigan Union gives you the environment of a library with the added benefit of being in proximity to everything the Michigan Union has to offer. It’s a very quiet study space inside a bustling community hub. You’ll have access to good food options if you need an energy boost and (in my opinion) the best bathrooms on campus. If you’re looking for the vibes of a library but aren’t quite ready to brave the Law Library, check out the Michigan Union Study Lounge.
Vibes: StudiousÂ
Seating Availability: 6/10
I hope this guide has helped show you some options for your next study session! Each location has pros and cons, depending on your studying preferences and the assignment that needs to be done. Did I miss any good ones? What’s your favorite UMich study spot?