Every day is entertaining when your favorite thing to do is people watch, especially on a college campus. Despite the negative (and oftentimes creepy) connotation that can accompany people watching, I think we need to finally admit as a collective that we all do it. Whether it’s on campus, at a concert, or in the grocery store, we’re always looking at those around us. Luckily for us, Davis has a multitude of incredible spots to not only observe those around us, but to occasionally get an assignment or two done as well. After all, our assignments come first….right?
- The Silo
Between Peete’s coffee, crepes, Gunrock Cafe, Spokes Grill, and food trucks, Silo is a hotspot for students all year around. Whether you want to sit upstairs, or downstairs and try to snag a table, you will not be disappointed at the influx of people going in and out. One of my favorite parts about Silo is that if you sit there long enough, you’re bound to run into somebody you know. As for studying, this isn’t the easiest place to focus because of the constant rush of students, but if you need to do something simple like write down the notes before you get to class, this is the perfect place to be.
- Student Community Center
In my opinion, the SCC is an underrated building on campus. With Coho South Cafe downstairs for a pick me up, this is the ideal medium for people who need to get some work done, but also don’t want to feel isolated. Downstairs there are tables and couches to sit on and upstairs they have more tables and barstools with an outdoor area too. The SCC is far less busy -and quieter- than Silo but is still crowded enough to keep you entertained. My favorite spot is upstairs at the barstools so you can see everyone walking up the stairs while still being able to focus on your own work.
- The Memorial Union
Where does one even begin to describe the amount of people walking in and out of the MU everyday? With the bus stop on the side of campus, most students’ only way to their classes is walking through the MU. Since the MU is three stories and has lots of outdoor seating, there is an ideal spot for everyone. If you want to have your main character moment and watch those around you (and be watched), sitting at or near the Coffee House is your best bet. Hundreds of students walk through there on a daily basis, but don’t expect to get much work done with all the distractions around. Sitting outside is perfect for those who enjoy the outdoors and don’t mind the occasional fly that won’t leave you alone. In fact, I would argue that sitting outside in front of the Coffee House is the best spot on campus for people watching because you have a view of the full East Quad as well as the surrounding halls.
- Shields Library
No doubt the library is the best place to actually get work done but I’ve found that certain areas are perfect for both getting work done and also paying attention to people around you. The second floor main reading room is the most social room in the building. Between people constantly walking in and out as well as people greeting those they know, this room is hardly ever quiet. Despite this, the vibrant aura of the room also motivates you to study because you know that everyone else is looking at you too (peer pressure at its finest). All in all, if you want to go somewhere to get work done and also have another main character moment, go to the main reading room.
Although there are so many more spots on campus, these four are my most frequented areas that I believe are ideal for people watching and getting some work done. I hope this has given some of you the answers you longed for and if not, provided new spots to try on campus.