All of us like different study environments. It’s hard to find that perfect spot that will snap your focus into place and heighten your productivity. Some prefer silence; others need white noise. Some like the sweet melody of Jack Johnson, and some like to rock out to Pearl Jam.
It’s definitely worth mentioning that there’s no absolute best study spot on campus, because it all depends on personal taste and the way you work. With that said, there are some spaces to get work done that you would have never thought about, and may end up being the most productive for you!
This week I studied at several different locations on campus to get a feel for what they all were like and how productive I was at each place. Here’s the rundown:
Bapst Library:
You walk in and the thought that pops into your mind: HARRY POTTER. This library has an incredible resemblance to the dining hall in the Harry Potter movies. So, all you HP fans- this is the place for you. The tables and chairs are wooden and very exquisite. Sitting at these tables makes you feel almost like you’re at a royal dinner. The tables do allow you a lot of space to spread out your work. The silence of this library is astounding though. For those of you who need the silence- pack your bags and camp out here to study for your exams! If a pen drops, ten people will give you a dirty look- I learned that the hard way. Overall, Bapst is a beautiful environment to study in, but studying in silence has to be the thing for you!
O’Neill Library:
Deciding which floor to study on is a hard decision because it’s a different experience depending on what you choose. If you happen to get a booth on the first floor- props! It’s so hard to snag one of those. They redid the first floor for this year, so they have comfy chairs and tables. The third floor is the busiest floor. If you’re the type who works well with small conversation around you, this is the floor for you. I picked the fifth floor toward the back where there are big windows that overlook Boston. The view is great; it’s quieter with some occasional noise- the perfect balance in my opinion. Overall, if you’re looking to get a lot of work done without worrying how loud you are, you’ll love this location!
Plex:
For all you multitaskers, the plex is an awesome place to get that reading done for your next exam. The amount of people who bring a book or packet of reading to the gym is astounding! So I took to the gym with my history book to try it out, and let me tell you, I will be doing this more often! Time goes by so quickly as you’re reading while riding the bike. It’s so efficient- exercise and work in the time it would normally take you to do one. The white noise of the machines is rather soothing and helps you focus as well. If you’re always really busy and want to squeeze in a workout, bring your work!
Laundry Room:
I know what you’re thinking, but this is an amazing spot to get reading and work done! The white noise of the washers and dryers helps you focus and you have to wait an hour anyway for your clothes to dry. Your concentration will heighten and the atmosphere is surprisingly calming! Try it out!
Bed:
I give so much credit to those who can successfully study in their bed. For me, I end up falling asleep after the first fifteen minutes. The fact that you associate your bed with sleep and that it is so easy to just shut your eyes and enjoy a comfortable nap makes this the worst study space ever! If productivity is your goal, avoid your room and go somewhere where you can sit up and be alert.
Addie’s Loft:
This is my favorite place to study out of all the locations on campus. The white noise of people talking in lower helps me focus and food is so close! You can grab lunch while you’re trying to finish that last problem set. Not to mention the new mini mart with an endless selection of candy! Being someone who needs some noise around me to be able to focus on something, this atmosphere is the most ideal in terms of productivity. Depending on what table you pick, there is a lot of room to spread out and the space is great if you have to meet with a group for a project or assignment!