It’s the middle of the semester, which means . . . midterms! Yes, it’s time to get studying. Studying can be grueling, but I noticed that having my favorite place to study where I can really focus and get a lot of work done makes studying a lot easier. Here is my list of favorite study spots on campus to get you a little more excited for the midterms season!
1. Morey Hall
Quietness: ★★☆☆☆
Available Studying Space: ★★☆☆☆
Proximity to Food: ★★★★★
Amount of Light: ★★★★★
Hours: ★★★★☆
One of the original buildings on the academic quad, and known as the ultimate humanities building, Morey Hall only has a few tables and couches to choose from, but its diversity in table sizes and cozy ambiance makes it a perfect spot for studying on your own or working in groups. Crowds of people passing the hall in between classes and the heater’s humming create a constant background noise that may be annoying to students who prefer strict silence when studying. (Or maybe white noise is your thing.) The best feature of Morey Hall is the large windows that provide plenty of light and an amazing view of the flag lounge.
2. PRR (Periodical Reading Room)
Quietness: ★★★★★
Available Studying Space: ★★★★☆
Proximity to Food: ★★★★☆
Amount of Light: ★★★☆☆
Hours: ★★★★★
As one of the most popular studying destinations for Rochester students, PRR in the iconic Rush Rhees Library boasts sturdy long tables for a lot of studying space and a strict rule of silence for good concentration. Open until 3 am, PRR is a great place to cram for exams. Whenever you get tired of studying, look up at the ceiling and discover its beautiful design.
3. Art and Music Library
Quietness: ★★★★☆
Available Studying Space: ★★★☆☆
Proximity to Food: ★★★★☆
Amount of Light: ★☆☆☆☆
Hours: ★★★★☆
Tired of PRR? Then mix it up with the Art and Music Library, nestled in the tunnel that connects the Gleason Library and the Wilson Commons. Not only does this library host an amazing collection of rare art and books, but it also has tables for quiet independent studying. The best thing about the Art and Music Library is the large study group rooms that you can rent online for working in groups or even for watching a movie with friends.
4. Rettner
Quietness: ★★☆☆☆
Available Studying Space: ★★★☆☆
Proximity to Food: ★★☆☆☆
Amount of Light: ★★★★★
Hours: ★★★★★
Located between Wilson Commons and Morey Hall, Rettner Hall for the Media Arts and Innovation is used by most students not taking classes there as a shortcut to get to class. However, if you explore the building a bit more, not only is there a 3D printing lab, but there are also a few tables and couches perfect for both independent studying and group work. Although there is not a lot of available space for studying, what is available is complemented with beautiful modern architecture and an excellent source of sunshine. It’s personally my favorite spot to write essays. Plus, it’s open 24 hours!
5. Outside
Quietness: ★☆☆☆☆
Available Studying Space: ★★☆☆☆
Proximity to Food: ★☆☆☆☆
Amount of Light: ★★★★★
Hours: ★★☆☆☆
Not enough students take advantage of the beautiful campus to study outside, especially during the fall when there is always a nice breeze and enough sunshine to stay warm. You can sit in the Quad to get some reading done, or you can find tables scattered around campus to study at. For example, there are tables outside of Sue B. next to the newly installed swings, or next to the Sage Art Center under the large willow trees. Although silence is obviously not guaranteed, changing your studying atmosphere can be an effective way to get more work done!
If you have other study spots or tips, let me know!