Finding Niche Spots on Campus: A Guide to Finding Your Space at College

Finding a niche spot on a big campus can be hard sometimes. Living, working and studying in big environments can be draining, so it is important to find a place to escape to. 

Looking for a cool place on campus may seem unnecessary, but you are looking for peace, serenity, and calm in a chaotic environment. Having a space like this is extremely essential for surviving life as a college student. So, I am here to help you know what makes a good spot and understand the importance of creating your own space here. 

The key to finding a niche place is not scrolling TikTok or checking an online list, it is going out and exploring on your own. Let the places find you. The more you meander, the more chances you have to stumble into a place you would never have found otherwise. Start by packing your bag, grabbing your water bottle, putting on your walking shoes and heading out; the walk itself is an adventure. 

I personally love being in nature: a nice pond or stream, a patch of grass, or even the bench you pass on your walk to class could unknowingly end up being the perfect place to sit and rest. The big tree at the bottom of a hill could be a great spot to rest after a long walk. You won’t know until you go out actively searching. 

Don’t just stop once you have one or two; it is good to always be looking for new places. You never know what better spots you might miss if you stick to your usuals. 

As winter approaches, it is especially important to have a go-to space to combat seasonal depression. The weather limits options, which is why indoor spots are just as important. We are thankful to be on such a huge campus with an abundance of random buildings to use. So don’t be shy on your “spot-hunting” walk, go inside buildings and explore rooms you’ve never been in. The whole campus is yours, so do not just stick to the Student Union and your dorm because that can get boring after a while.  

For your well-being, it is essential that you find places you love, curate your space, and do things you enjoy there. Spend some time alone, catch up with friends, read, journal, or even study. 

In my experience, the more calming spaces you find, the more positive your life will be. 

Each phase of my life has been connected to these special spots both on and off campus. Each year brings new challenges and therefore new spaces. It’s good for the mind, body, and soul to enjoy the places you are in; having a special little place can help you feel at peace. 

You may already have spots without realizing it; next time you are there, think about how much that space has done for you and what it means to you. Practicing gratitude and thanking the spaces you use will boost your overall mood and college experience.

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