The Five Best Study Places on Campus

Midterms are coming up and it’s time to start getting some major studying in before all our tests and assignments. If you’re anything like me, studying at home just doesn’t make for the most productive environment. I tend to be very particular in what I surround myself with and look for in a place to study, which can vary. In my time here at UCSB, I have come to find all these spots my personal favorite spots to study. Here are my top 5 go to spots to study on campus, in no particular order. 

• First up is The Hub at the Ucen. Here you can get either a table or a booth where you can sit with friends, or a stool if you are looking to study on your own. The Hub gives you easy access to many food places in case you get hungry or you simply want to snack on something while you study. The Hub provides for a lively, but not chaotic, environment, where you can feel at ease and not too stressed. If this is what you are looking for, this is the place for you. 

• Next is the courtyard outside of Buchanan Hall. If you find that studying outdoors rather than indoors is better for you, this is a good spot. Here you can get some fresh air, which is definitely necessary in order to stay healthy, and just the right amount of sunshine, as there are many places with shade. There are tables to sit at with friends or benches where you can sit on your own. Additionally, there is a coffee cart nearby for any snacks or drinks you may want or need. 

• Another good outdoors spot to study is the Chem Lawn. This is a good place for people who don’t like to study sitting at a table or feel confined. This is an especially good place to study with friends as there is lots of space to sit, but you are more than welcome to studying on your own too. another nice place if you want to be outdoors and dont mind/or prefer sitting on the grass rather than sitting at a table. Here you will also get fresh air and lots of sunlight, and you don’t have to worry about closing hours or finding a spot. 

• Obviously the Library would be an ideal place to study in. However, there are quite a few places here that still have a lively environment, so if you’re looking for a quiet place as well as a place to study on your own, the 8th floor is the spot you’re looking for. This spot also has a great view of either the mountains or of the ocean depending on what side you sit on, which can definitely make for relaxing surroundings. Another great perk of studying in the library, along with charging ports and vending machines, would be that it is open 24/7, so you can go at any time for however long you need. 

• The courtyard outside of HSSB is another good spot to study outside. Of course, this is a good space to get some fresh air and sunlight. There is a bit more exposure to sunlight here, but the solar-power panels above the tables provide you with the shade you need. Probably the biggest pro of this spot is that the tables have power outlets and wireless charging stations, so you don’t have to worry about the battery on your phone or laptop running out. 

While there are many good spots throughout campus, these are all the ones that have worked best for me. All of these places provide different environments, so you should visit them all at least once to see if it works for you. You should find the place that best suits your mood and helps you feel productive.

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