Midterm season is in full force and Geisel is packed with students scrambling to cram in the last bit of information while chugging a large cup of coffee from the Sunshine Market. Geisel is a great place to study if you are desperately in need of cramming; it has large tables, bright lights, and textbooks on reserve. However, with the great amenities comes an aura of desperation from sleep deprived students and the stench of B.O. mixed with the Crispy Chicken Snack from Tapioca Express. So, you want to study somewhere other than Geisel? I don’t blame you. Here is a compilation of places to study at, other than our favorite spaceship.
1. Starbucks. Starbucks is usually bustling with studying college students. Why? Free wi-fi and delicious caramel macchiatos, that’s why! Starbucks is a great alternative to Geisel. The environment is relaxing and there are plenty of people meeting for coffee and having a good time; you forget how stressful studying is and enjoy the chill environment. Since the Starbucks at La Jolla Village Drive, Regents, and Costa Verde are packed, try driving or bussing another mile down to a further Starbucks. My personal favorite Starbucks to study at are in Del Mar and Solana Beach. If you happen to go to Del Mar, make sure you grab a Board and Brew sandwich to munch on while you study!
2. Le Stats Coffee House. If you are looking for a 24 hour study room, check out Le Stats. There are 2 locations in North Park that are crowded with unique individuals. You’ll see business men, tattoo artists, students, and a lot of free spirits chilling and drinking coffee until late hours at this study spot. Although the Le Stats are generally large for coffee houses, keep in mind that SDSU and SDCC students frequent this location as well. Try to get there early and reserve a seat for you and your friends.
3. Young Hickory. Speaking of North Park, I just remembered a coffeehouse I frequented way too often last quarter. Young Hickory has the best vibe to study at. There are large tables near the entrance, bar seats around the walls, and smaller tables for parties of 2. The coffeehouse has a unique range of drinks; They serve beers, tea, and coffee side by side. Their sandwiches are also delicious! Aside from the good food and drinks, this study spot will always have fun people to talk to during your study breaks. There are a ton of artsy people coming by for their morning cup of jo. You definitely want to check YH out.
4. The Cat Cafe. Okay, fine. You can’t study here. However, you can play with cats. The Cat Cafe usually has around 3 cats out to play (and ready for adoption) every day. Make sure you purchase a drink and be respectful of the cats. I also meet the coolest cat ladies (and fellows) whenever I go here.
5. Infinitea. If you are craving asian food, and still have some studying to do, visit Infinitea. They are open later than most cafes and serve a large range of foods and drinks (mainly boba and tea). The wifi is quick here and there are a large number of plugs as well.
6. Better Buzz Coffee. If you haven’t had their best drink ever yet, you haven’t lived. Okay, maybe I’m exaggerating, but this drink is sure to please your sweet tooth. This cafe is great for studying at due to the fact that it is located in Pacific Beach. Aside from the unique thrift stores and bar life, PB is great to visit for studying; if you need a break, step outside and take a stroll down the pier.
7. Living Room. Living Room is a chill cafe in Down Town La Jolla, right by the La Jolla Cove. Upstairs, it’s a hookah lounge with live music, and downstairs, it is a quiet cafe with studying and working people. If you need a break from studying, quickly go upstairs and enjoy the band and refresh your mind. When you are ready to study again, walk downstairs, and get back to work.
If you need a relaxing place to study check out these cafes. However, if your midterm is tomorrow, hurry over to Theodore and grab a seat on the 8th floor.