The Best Third Spaces for College Students

Going to the same places, such as classes or work can get tiring, and let’s face it; boring. Eventually, when all you do is go to work and school, these environments can even start to feel alienating. That’s where third spaces come in. 

What are Third Spaces?

Third spaces are places that don’t concern your work life, academic life, or your own home, essentially. They’re places you can visit to get out of your everyday routine, places to get work done in an environment different from your usual, and they can also act as a place to foster a sense of community. Ray Oldenburg, a famed urban sociologist, said that, “…in contrast to first and second places, third places allow people to put aside their concerns and simply enjoy the company and conversation around them.” Perfect places to start up a conversation, or if you’re more shy, like me, simply people-watch and bask in the chatter. 

Why Should You Care? 

There’s been recent discourse around third spaces, or the lack of them. Having a space besides work, school, or a tiny dorm room to exist in can benefit not just you, but it can benefit larger communities of people as well, such as cities or countries. If you’re interested in a more in-depth look, I suggest this video from Mina Le. Overall, third spaces can be really important.

My Recommended Third Spaces on Campus

Living on a college campus, especially one as big as Purdue, has its benefits when it comes to third spaces. However, something I’ve struggled with is finding third spaces that aren’t just study areas. Here are my favorite third spaces on campus: 

1.) The Co-rec 

The Co-rec is a great place on campus to get away from your usual routine. Not only can you get a good workout in, but with cycling classes, club sports, and even study spaces, the Co-rec has lots of niche communities to branch out into. And after, you can alway get a healthy treat at Freshens and sit and watch the big screen tv in the lobby. 

2.) PMU 

You might not think the PMU is a third space with how busy it gets, however, it can’t be denied that if you’re looking to meet up with friends, eat food that’s better than the dining halls, or get a study sesh in then the PMU is the place to be. Personally, I’ve spent hours there laughing with friends and enjoying the diverse environment that is harder to find in other areas on campus. 

3.) Starbucks, Greyhouse, and Lavazza

All of these places have one thing in common: coffee. And for good reason. Coffee shops are some of the best third spaces. Whether it’s striking up a conversation with the barista or feeling like the main character, if you’re looking for an effective third space, this is it. 

4.) West Lafayette Public Library (Chauncey)

A lot of the on-campus libraries are designated study areas. Which is great but not necessarily third space material. As a frequent visitor of the West Lafayette Public Library, there’s more of a bustling sense of community outreach compared to the libraries on campus. 

And last, but not least…

5.) Krach and Memorial Lawn

Although the weather is colder right now, when it gets warmer, both of these outside areas fill up with students. I’ve seen people with hammocks, frisbees, and more soaking up the sun in these places on campus.

Overall, if you’re tired of your daily routine, I suggest you visit a third space and get out of your comfort zone. It might even surprise you!

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