With final exams around the corner, one thing is for certain- it’s time to start studying. Students at the University of Maryland are beginning to flock to McKeldin Library; however, the main campus library can often be crowded and overwhelming with hundreds of students’ heads buried deep into their books and computers.
If you’re looking for a new place to hit the books, be sure to check out the following:
Van Munching Hall
Once classes are out, Van Munching Hall, the business school, has become one of the new hot spots for students to study and get their work done. The building is open all evening so for those interested in studying until the sun rises, this is the perfect spot for you! The classrooms are set up with spacious tables allowing you to spread your school material out comfortably without being limited to a tiny desk or cubicle.
However, there is one problem. A lot of the classrooms do not have cell phone service. While this may be helpful in completing your work without any distractions, make sure you’re not expecting any important phone calls beforehand!
Starbucks Coffee Shop
What is more essential for studying than a caffeine fix? The Starbucks located on Route 1 is the perfect place to grab a cup of coffee and get some work done. This coffee shop not only offers food and drink, but also Wifi, so don’t be afraid to bring your laptop to write that ten page English assignment
Shannon Coveney, junior psychology and neuroscience major, likes studying at Starbucks the best. “It’s noisy, but not too noisy,” Coveney said. “I go crazy when I’m in the library and its silent; I’d much rather have white noise when I study.”
The Michelle Smith Performing Arts Library
For those that live on north campus, the Michelle Smith Performing Arts Library is definitely your best bet. Making the hike from north campus to McKeldin Library in the cold winter air can be miserable so definitely check out this spot before cramming. Among the bookshelves, large cubicles and tables make up the first and second floor of the library.
Beware though! The Michelle Smith Performing Arts Library is only open until 11 p.m. so don’t plan an entire evenings worth of studying here.
Jason’s Deli Study Room
One of the most under-the-radar study spots is the study room in the back of Jason’s Deli on Route 1. Like Starbucks, Jason’s offers Wifi. The back study room, with its Maryland themed ambiance, has lounge chairs with small desks and tables for patrons.
“I like the back room because it’s a nice environment, free Internet, and best of all, the salad bar and soda fountain are only a few steps away,” Hannah Shaw, sophomore business major, said.
If you plan on studying through mealtime, head to Jason’s Deli in order to grab a quick bite that you can enjoy while working.
East Asia Section of McKeldin Library
If all else fails, McKeldin Library still does offer some great spots to study. First and second floors can sometimes feel more like a zoo than a library so if you’re looking for a quiet area, make sure you check out the East Asia section located on the fourth floor.
Not only that, but the library in general offers great books, periodicals, and computers that can help prepare you to ace your final exams!