Finals week can leave us all a little stressed about study spots. Venturing out of your comfort zone during these next two weeks can be hard, but hopefully this guide can help you on your journey down the wonderful world of studying. Each spot is rated by comfort (1 least, 10 most) and distraction level (1 minimum, 10 maximum), so that you can get those papers going and flashcards written.
On Campus
1. LBC Quiet Room
This spot, located inside the LBC, is a quiet space with comfy couches.
Comfort: 10
Distraction: 6
2. LBC Outdoor Areas
While the porch overlooking the quad fills up fast, the patio on McAlister normally has a few seats available.
Comfort: 4
Distraction: 8
3. Howie T
While this classic may seem intimidating, students give the library high marks. Be careful during finals season, for spots fill up quicker than usual.
Comfort: 5
Distraction: 1 (depending on area)
4. BSchool/Law Libraries
For a change in pace, check out one of these libraries.
Comfort: 5
Distraction: 1
5. Loyola Library
Escape the crowds by venturing over to our neighbors across Freret.
Comfort: 5
Distraction: -20 (unless you know a lot of people at Loyola)
6. Caroline Richardson Library
Check out the library in the Caroline Richardson building, next to the health center, for a new experience.
Comfort: 4
Distraction: 1
7. Classrooms
During finals there are plenty of classrooms open for studying. Grab some friends and get to work.
Comfort: 1
Distraction: 3
8. PJ’s on Willow
Fight someone for a cubicle, or settle down at a table inside or out.
Comfort: 6
Distraction: 7
9. Newcomb College Institute
The second floor of the NCI on Freret has a few comfortable study rooms. Bonus points for the coffee maker in the kitchen.
Comfort: 9
Distraction: 3
Off Campus
Oak Street
1. Rue de la Course
This coffee shop has an almost Harry Potter like feel. Parking can be difficult, however.
Comfort: 5
Distraction: 4
2. Z’Otz
For a hip study environment, check out this coffee shop. There is also a courtyard in the back.
Comfort: 4
Distraction: 4
Maple Street
1. Starbucks
For those who don’t want to mess with the traditional, Starbucks offers indoor and outdoor seating. WiFi isn’t great, however.
Comfort: 2
Distraction: 7
2. Satsuma
While Satsuma is known for breakfast and lunch, it also can be a great place to study. Try to go during off peak hours for minimal distraction.
Comfort: 4
Distraction: 7
Freret Street
1. Village Coffee & Tea
The quiet study room upstairs is a great place to buckle down and get some work done.
Comfort: 6
Distraction: 2
2. Mojo
While the coffee here is amazing, it often gets pretty crowded pretty quickly.
Comfort: 5
Distraction: 8
3. Rook Café
This small coffee shop has an eclectic feel to it.
Comfort: 3
Distraction: 3
Other
1. Café Luna
This Magazine Street café is in an old house and features both indoor and outdoor seating.
Comfort: 7
Distraction: 2
2. Manhattanjack
Located on Prytania, this coffee shop serves food cafeteria style.
Comfort: 5
Distraction: 9
3. Bed
As sophomore Melissa Greenberg says, studying in bed is usually accompanied by “tears running down my face as I mourn the impending death of my GPA”
Comfort: 10+++++
Distraction: 10+++++