Midterms have come and gone and as I was preparing to study and gather my materials together to head off and study, I started to think of all the nice places on campus to do homework and prepare for tests. I am one that just studies and does work at home and occasionally the library, but I wanted to look into other on-campus locations that are great for studying!
1. The Grind: If it is a particularly nice day outside, the small (sometimes rickety) tables outside of The Grind are perfect for a little light reading or essay writing you’ve been putting off. Head inside on the warmer days and order a bagel or fresh salad and coffee and cozy up in one of their oversized chairs with a good book or your laptop. It can be loud during the lunch rush, so plan to study in the morning hours or early afternoon after lunchtime.
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2. Starbucks: I know, I know, you’ve probably studied at Starbucks a million times and are wondering what is so special about it. Much like The Grind, the USFSP Starbucks has outdoor seating, though in a much quieter area. The tables are rarely ever being used, so it is nice when you need to really pay attention and get down to business. If you venture inside, you can sit at a table partitioned away from the Starbucks line, or you can head into the Barnes & Noble section to find a comfortable chair to hole up in. While you’re at it, order a white chocolate mocha for me and enjoy!
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3. The Waterfront: As weird as it sounds, I have really enjoyed doing academic reading by the water! The sounds of the water, birds, and traffic are somehow soothing, especially with a little bit of sun shining on my face. Try the benches on the new sidewalk leading to Harbor Hall or the tables over by what used to be Chick-Fil-A, or if you’re not a huge fan of the water, many students recommend the fountain. While foot traffic between classes might make this a louder, more distracting location, if you catch it at the right time this would be a great spot to settle down for a few and get some work done! Make sure if you’re going to sit in the sun all day to bring some sunscreen…trust me, I learned the hard way!
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4. The Library: Okay now you guys probably really doubt me with this option, but I promise it’s worth reading! Did you know about renting out a study room of the library? I mean talk about privacy when it is really crunch time-you have a quiet room all to yourself and/or your group! Just go to the front desk with your student I.D. asking for a study room and they will provide you with the key to a designated room; bring your laptop with any cables necessary and you can hook up your computer to a small flat screen television in the study room to project group work.
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5. Straub Park: Close to campus, Straub Park is THE best place for outdoor studying. You can’t beat the views, and it is close to the Vinoy Hotel and Beach Drive so you can pop into your favorite shops and restaurants (I highly recommend Parkshore Grill for both lunch and dinner) and refuel. Bring a blanket, some water, and a fully charged laptop and you’re sure to get plenty of work done.
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Is your favorite USFSP study spot on our list? Comment below or on our facebook page to share your study hubs!
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