Once we get back from Thanksgiving break, it is always a bit difficult to get into an academic mindset. Unfortunately, not enough turkey or pumpkin pie can put off the impending finals season that comes our way.
Lucky for you, here is a list of study spots in San Jose to set you up for success!
On-Campus Hidden Gems
It can get awkward kicking out students from reserved rooms in the Martin Luther King Jr. Library. Fortunately, there are spots on campus that don’t require uncomfortable interactions.
The tables underneath the Boccardo Business Center (BBC) are perfect for studying during beautiful autumn days. A tranquil space surrounded by trees and changing leaves, you’ll be sure to fall into your studies.
Next, if you follow the scent of Subway sandwiches, you’ll be sure to find a place at the tables outside the Art building. There are tons of tables to sit at, with umbrellas to keep you dry on rainy days, and the smell of warm bread is an added bonus.
Spots for Coffee Lovers
If you’re the type of person who needs caffeine to get through your school work, you’re in luck! Here are some coffee shops that will be your lifeline for finals season.
Crema Coffee Roasting Co. has a chai latte that tastes like Christmas in a cup called Gingerbread Chai. The coffee shop has tons of tables and charging stations to work at, which is essential for dying computers and decreasing energy levels.
Insomnibar is a newly opened coffee shop, and it has the perfect vibes to stay concentrated. It has black booths that are comfortable, elegant, and a menu of unique drinks to sip on while you work. Some beverages to try are their Vietnamese coffee with avocado cream, peach lemon grass tea, and lychee limeade.
Places for Academic-Foodies
When studying for long periods of time, it’s good to use food for fuel. If you don’t mind the noise or have good noise-cancelling headphones, San Pedro Square in Downtown has it all.
Some popular places are: Hella Good Burger, Pizza Bocca Lupo, and Playback Coffee Co. As a treat for all of your hard work, make sure to stop at The Gelato Shop on your way out.
If you’re craving a quieter spot and perhaps a cozy soup, Panera Bread is the best restaurant to study at. The cozy 2000s vibes and background jazz music will be sure to get you into the groove while studying.
Aesthetic Study Spot
Sometimes when we have our noses deep in our books, it is important to come up for air. So grab your favorite snacks, a picnic blanket, and all of your studying materials; it’s time to head outside.
The Municipal Rose Garden is a spacious picnic place to study. It has accessible bathrooms and a Starbucks just down the street. Not to mention, the rows of rose bushes and beautiful water fountain make for an aesthetic backdrop to any study session.
An Honorable Mention
If you need a quiet place to concentrate, Barnes & Noble might be for you. Although not quite a library, it is filled with books, very quiet, and has tons of seating. This is an underrated study spot that will be sure to get you through those tough finals.
Whether you’re inside or outside, at a coffee shop or in your room, we’re wishing you all the luck this finals season.
What is your go-to study spot? Let us know @HerCampusSJSU!