I’m done. I’m out of here. Well… almost. With two weeks left until graduation, I suppose it’s time to reminisce about my favorite places to study on campus.
- RLP Patio
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This has, and always will be, a classic study spot for me. I found this gem the moment I got out of my first ever class as an undergrad and it was love at first sight. I think the best part about studying here is taking the little boardwalk that starts by the SAC and loops around the back of the building. On one side you have the best landscaping in all of UT and on the other a very modern building that juts out from the second floor and almost feels like it’s hovering above you. You also get to pass under the sky bridge that connects the SAC and the RLP which I think is always really cool.
- Welch Courtyard
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I found this place last semester while on a quest to find a new study spots and it’s become one of my favorites. Like the patio of the RLP, the best part is getting here. There is an archway off of the inner campus drive you can go through or you can take the stairs leading up from the Speedway entrance. Either way, there is a moment of shock as you step in and another moment of awe as you sit down or walk through. The courtyard in surrounded by Welch on all sides and has these big, triangular, aluminum canopies for shade.
- Skybridge
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The skybridge connecting the SAC to the RLP is one of the most underrated places to study. At least in my opinion. One of the walls is a massive window looking down at the ground between the buildings which makes it a great place for procrastination via people watching.
- Picnic Tables outside the DFA
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There’s something about sitting at the picnic tables outside the Fine Arts Building during twilight that is so cottagecore in the most dark academia way. Bonus points if it’s fall or spring and the leaves are doing their little thing.
- Engineering Building
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I’ve only been in here twice, but it’s a really great place! There’s a big staircase leading down three floors of the building as well as lots of glass and natural light. I always feel a little self conscious whiping out my iPad and starting to sketch amongst the brightest minds of UT, but it looks amazing!
- LBJ Fountain
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The other day, I was sitting on the lawn and working on homework while the branches above swayed in the wind. Then I had a sandwich and almost dozed off for a bit. Definitely the most peaceful spot.
- Fine Arts Library
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You can hear a pin drop in here. It’s so quiet. What I like most is how the green and blue accent colors of the building persist into this muted space, giving it what I will now be calling spunky academia vibes.
- The Foundry
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Located on the fourth floor of the Fine Arts building, The Foundry is home to UT’s most talented artists. Although there are lots of desks, booths, and comfy chairs, my favorite part is seeing my friends here. After two years of being online, it’s always great to see other people working on similar projects that I’ve had or a class that I’ve taken.
- SAC Roof
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It saddens me to say that after three years of being here and only two weeks left until graduation, I’ve only just discovered this treasure. It’s on the fourth floor of the SAC and has a direct view into the Gates Dell Complex. It also has views of the tower and the rooftops of other surrounding buildings. Bonus points if you go at sunset and experience the sky changing colors.
- Anywhere but the PCL
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I’ve been bottling this up for three years but I think it’s time the world knows. I don’t and have never liked studying at the PCL. I think there’s something to be said about the persistent anxiety lingering in the air that’s almost contagious. I can’t do it, but you can find me rooting from the sidelines for those that can.
I’ve just now noticed that most of these places are outdoors. My condolences to those with allergies. I think I’m going to miss this place more than I’m ready to admit.