The University of Ottawa’s Guide to… Surviving studying in the summer
Let’s be honest: studying during the spring and summer, when the birds are chirping, and the sun is shining from every corner of the sky, is not, in any sense, fun! All you want to do is throw a Frisbee around, suntan at Strathcona Park, or go for a walk by the canal. However, exams are imminent and summer school is only a month away. Studying is an unfortunate necessity. So why cram yourself in your room or the library where the sun doesn’t shine? Go out to embrace and enjoy our beautiful outdoors while cracking open the notes and textbooks.
When the sun is shining, you don’t have to go far to enjoy the weather while studying. There are tons of places on campus that are great for outdoors studying. Let’s start on the Laurier side of campus. Right above the Laurier bus stop, above Tabaret, there are 5 or 6 tables for your studying needs. While this spot is a little noisy due to the bus routes, you get a perfect view of Desmarais, Arts and City Hall while soaking in all the sun. You can of course bask in the sun or get some shade under the trees of Tabaret lawn while cracking open your books. Moving on down Laurier, perhaps grabbing a cup of coffee at Second Cup and basking in the sun on their patio might be for you. Personally, coffee is my engine when I study. Coupling the needed caffeine with a sunny patio makes for a productive study area.
There are quite a few places near the center of campus as well that are excellent for studying outdoors. While Morisset terrace is usually quite busy, there are times where you can find an empty bench to spread your books upon. Bringing a towel and stationing yourself on the grass is always an alternative as well. Right across from Morisset is a quaint but perfectly located café in Lamoureux that is not only great for grabbing a cup of coffee or a soup, but for studying in its outdoor patio. Not only do you get to observe the everyday happenings of on-campus activities, but you also get to enjoy light jazz music while pretending to enjoy your studying. If you are an Engineering or Science student, there are a few benches and tables outside of Colonel By and S.I.T.E. to suit your studying needs.
There is no need to sequester yourself to uOttawa’s campus. Ottawa is full of trees, grass and public areas that can fill your studying needs. Especially during the summer, sitting by the canal is a wonderful place to open your books, take in the sun, and get down to business. While studying, you can enjoy the runners, the water and the sun. If you want to take a nice walk before hitting the books, I would recommend walking to Parliament Hill. Bring a blanket, a snack and a water bottle, and take in the sun, sound and views while perusing through your textbooks. More centrally located, Confederation Park is also a great place for spring and summer outdoors studying. There are tons of park benches, shaded trees and breeze to help you get through your necessary misfortune of studying. Or, if you are a Sandy Hill resident like myself, Strathcona Park is a wonderful area to lay down your books. Only a 10-minute walk from uOttawa’s campus, this serene yet bustling Park hosts tanners, children, dog walkers and students alike. If you need a study break, there is even a spot in the canal where you can dip your feet in!
While studying during the spring and summer is a complete hassle, you can make your life a lot easier by embracing the beautiful weather rather than neglecting it. So take in the sun, the breeze and the books and your spring and summer semesters can be both productive and enjoyable! Now let’s just hope the sun and warm weather comes soon….
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