Where to escape to on and off campus when you can’t focus at your desk? Shockingly, the end of the semester is fast approaching. Midterms have passed, and the expectation of finals is looming. Whether you are sad to head home as it seemed to go by so fast or excited and anticipating seeing loved ones over break, everyone has to take exams first. Here is a compiled list of where to prepare.
- W.E.B DuBois Library – Study Floors – On Campus
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Starting off with a classic spot. You likely visited one of these floors during your first campus tour. These study floors are quiet spaces and perfect for those who need very minimal distraction. Among the book stacks, this floor has small individual desks placed back-to-back. Personal trash cans and power outlets are also conveniently placed here. The quiet study floors include floors eight, eleven, fourteen, seventeen, and twenty.
- W.E.B DuBois Library – Floor 12 and 13 – On Campus
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A classic building, but an underrated spot. This study spot is located on the writing program floors. This spot is tranquil, as offices surround it, and it rarely has passersby. It features a large round table with multiple chairs. This is perfect for spreading out materials or studying quietly with a friend.
- W.E.B DuBois Library – Floor 9 and 15 – On Campus
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This is the last study spot included on this list that is in the library. With twenty-six floors, there is such a broad range of options that it seems imperative to include multiple. Floors nine and fifteen are group study floors. If you have a larger group that needs to prepare together, this is a great place to go; group projects can be worked on without being disruptive.
- ILC – 3rd Floor – On Campus
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The ILC has many great study spots. With its multiple floors, there is almost always a nook one can tuck themselves into. Specifically, the second-floor Communications Hub is a highlight. With many tables and chairs, great sunlight, and a view of the campus pond, this is a solid study spot to do individual or group studying.
- South College – On Campus
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South College might be one of the best places to study. There are many quiet spaces available for use. The first floor of the East Wing has table seating, comfortable chairs, and high-top seating. In the stairwells, there are small tables throughout, and on the second floor, you can find more tables and even booths to study in.
- Physical Sciences Building – On Campus
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The Physical Sciences Building isn’t what people usually think of when thinking of a study spot. However, this is a great one! It has a lot of light with oversized floor-to-ceiling windows. Medium-sized tables are ideal for spreading out and studying individually. It remains quiet, even when all the tables are filled.
- Isenberg School of Management – Study Pods – On Campus
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For those in Isenberg, this may seem like an obvious one, but if you are inexperienced with the building, this is a great resource. These individualized pods promote focus and are great for times it is essential to study on your own. These tend to be popular, especially during exam weeks, so keep this in mind and possibly have a backup.
- Panera Bread – Off Campus
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You’ve probably studied here in high school. This chain is a classic place to get work done; you’ll see everyone from moms to corporate businessmen on their computers at the table next to you. With surprisingly good Wi-Fi and a variety of seating options inside and out, this is a great place to go.
- The Works – Off Campus
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The Works is another great off-campus cafe. They have a great menu here if you want a snack while studying. They also have a variety of seating ranging from large booths to small booths, single tables, and nooks. Another great feature of The Works is that it offers outdoor seating. This is a popular option for many and great to head to with friends. It can get crowded, so get there early.
- Share Roasters – Off Campus
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If The Works is too crowded, you can also check out Share Roasters. This is another cafe in downtown Amherst. It is very aesthetically pleasing and has a wide variety of coffee and espresso beverages. Seating is more limited here, but it is less crowded and has a solid, elevated energy. Products here are more expensive, but it is worth the extra money for the calm atmosphere.
Regardless of your needs, you’ll find something here for you. Finals season is overwhelming with tasks, but now hopefully one thing is taken off your plate. Remember that as long as you dedicate time, make your best effort, and ask for help when you need it, the end result of your exams is something you should be proud of! Good luck studying!
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