Students studying on the second floor of Norlin Library (Courtesy of the University of Colorado Boulder)
This piece is from the CU Independent’s opinion section. Any opinions or views do not represent the CU Independent.
I don’t mean to alarm anyone, but finals are fast approaching. It’s time to put all distractions aside and focus on the notes you haven’t touched all semester. But I’m not here to judge your study habits; whatever works, go for it. No, I’m here to offer a different type of insight. Because how you study is very important, but just as important is where you study. Obviously, on a college campus like CU Boulder, there are endless study spots, and people have their niche places that they gatekeep like no other. But since there are so many options, I’ll help you out by telling you where to go and where to avoid. So here is my list of some of the best and worst study spots that I’ve found.
Study Spot #1: Outside (1/10)
Even though it is starting to get warm out, do not fall into the trap of studying outside. You think that you’ll be an academic weapon once you soak up some sun rays, but trust me, it’s not as aesthetic as you wish. First of all, the brightness on your computer screen will never be high enough to see what you are working on, which is frustrating in and of itself. Also, there is something about the sun shining in your face that makes you want to abandon all responsibilities and just relax, not exactly a good environment to study. If you have any work that is on paper, then maybe it could be worth it, but for the most part, just take outside time as a brain break from your work.
Study Spot #2: Center for Academic Success and Engagement (9/10)
The overall vibe of the CASE building is very professional, and when you’re in there, you feel like you HAVE to lock in. I also like how there are plenty of spaces to go and get things done. If you’re able to get one of those couch nooks, then you’ve made it. But even the random chairs throughout the CASE building are comfortable enough to stay for a while, but not enough to slack off. I also think that the huge staircase is such an incentive to do work. If you walked ALL the way up the staircase, you might as well strap yourself in and get a good amount of work done. I think the CASE building is an underrated study spot, to be honest.
Study Spot #3: In your bed (4/10)
I have always believed that your bed is the place for relaxation and peace of mind. If you purposefully bring your work to your bed, just know that there is a high chance that nothing is getting done. I think we all know the feeling all too well. We get ready to work sitting up, but then there is a pillow, so you recline on it, and then you decide to lie down to get comfortable and rest your eyes for just a second. The next thing you know, you’ve taken an impromptu nap, and your homework has become tomorrow’s problem. However, some people have mastered the art of staying focused in bed and getting work done—not me, but some people.
Study Spot #4: Coffee shops (7/10)
Hear me out. I love to go to coffee shops in and around campus (Alpine Modern is a personal favorite of mine) because they are so convenient, and you can stop, work and have a drink. This is so aesthetic, in theory. However, the harsh reality of going to a coffee shop to study and get work done is quite the opposite. Most of the time, they will be too busy; you won’t be able to find a decent spot to set up, and it becomes a high-stress environment. I say go to a coffee shop that is decently far away to get away from the hustle and bustle of a college campus.
Study Spot #5: The University Memorial Center (5/10)
The UMC is as middle ground as you can get. I usually go to the UMC if I have a small break in between classes and want to at least get SOMETHING done. Whenever I have to actually get a hefty amount of work done, I find myself not being able to focus. I think that going to the main areas of the UMC for the sole purpose of studying may not be the best. However, the UMC also has more secluded places, which create a better studying environment. But like most places on campus, these areas tend to be full closer to finals, so be ready to camp out for a place to study.
Study Spot #6: Norlin Library (10/10)
Old reliable. I consider Norlin to be the perfect study spot. To be honest, any library is going to be a perfect study spot, especially when you need to focus 100%. The great thing about Norlin is that it caters to everyone. For all the solo studiers who need complete silence and the study group that does more talking than studying, Norlin is for you. The entire atmosphere is very chill, and it is spacious enough to find a spot, even as finals approach.
Luna Aug, a freshman at the University of Colorado Boulder, shared her thoughts on Norlin.
“I like to study near the Laughing Goat inside of Norlin because I like to have something to drink or eat while I study to keep me motivated,” Aug said.
So, there you have it. My list of places to stop by and places to skip. However, I definitely recommend trying all these spots out for yourself. Since everyone has their own method or workload, some places that might not work for me may work for you! Who knows, maybe you can study outside without abandoning your work to sunbathe. Take one thing off your plate for finals and pick a spot that works for you and your busy schedule! Good luck on finals, everyone!
Contact CU Independent Writer Frida Montes at frida.montes@colorado.edu
