Spring quarter is finally here and typically that means nicer weather…beginning in May. After exhausting fall and winter quarters, you and Joseph Regenstein may need to take a break from each other this spring. Like any other breakup, you’ll be slightly heartbroken, beyond confused and looking for the nearest place to get froyo. I’ve compiled a list of hot spots (literally hot once May finally arrives) to take your homework and show Reggie you don’t need him anymore!…well, at least until next fall.
1. Medici Outdoor Seating
There’s nothing sweeter than an ice cream cone from the Med on a beautiful spring day. Rewarding yourself with said ice cream cone after finishing your assigned reading or next week’s problem set is even better. We all know the Med bakery has limited seating, and your fellow Med-enthusiasts are likely to have taken those seats well before you even get there. Take advantage of the warm spring days to come by sitting in the adorable Med outdoor seating while getting some work done.
2. The Midway
Personally, I rarely go to the Midway during the year because I always find myself monotonously located somewhere on campus or in the Reg. While the Quad is a great place to get work done during weather-permitting days, it is usually crowded once the weather warms up, which could prove to be more of a distraction than an efficient study space. If you’re looking to enjoy the day’s warmth and actually get some of your work done, head over to the Midway. Take a small blanket with you (sitting on grass can get itchy quickly) and stake out a spot on the Midway to do some work.
3. UChicago Gleacher Center
This beautiful center is located right near the Loop, so it gives you a chance to not only evade the looming depression of the Reg, but also to get out of Hyde Park. There are study spaces throughout the building with large windows that provide a breathtaking view of downtown Chicago. If you’re not quite ready to give up the library-feel for your study spaces, the UChicago Gleacher Center is for you.
4. Starbucks Outdoor (or indoor) Seating
The tried and true study spot for those who need a quick caffeine fix and time away from similar campus coffee shops. While the Starbucks at 55/Woodlawn is almost always packed to capacity at any given time, the outdoor seating provides more room for getting your work done while fulfilling your Starbucks craving at the same time. The outdoor seating has not been set up quite yet, but I’m certain they will get it up and running as soon as the weather becomes warm enough to enjoy.
This spring, you owe it to yourself to explore the various places on campus and show Reggie you don’t need him anymore. Grab your friends to accompany you outdoors, or go solo and take some me-time with Freud to really make Reggie jealous.