OPINION BY JENNIFER SCHALLMOSER
As we all know, studying is probably the most important part about being at school. It’s inevitably one of the hardest tasks to carry out. And that’s why it’s really important to have a study spot on and or off campus that can create that much-needed atmosphere for you.
My favorite place to study is in upper Olmsted, which is actually called the Mezzanine. If you haven’t been up there, I highly recommend it.
For one, it’s not a super busy place, so most of the time it’s peaceful and quiet. Secondly, the view from up there is pretty. It’s nice enough where it’s good for when you need to take a break and stare out the window for a minute or two, but not to a point where it’s distracting.
But beware of the couches. They are very comfy and it’s likely you might fall asleep in them, so be aware of that possibility.
I also really like studying outside. Fresh air is always a plus, so you might as well study at the same time. Then there’s at least one enjoyable part about studying and taking advantage of the beautiful weather before the chilliness sets in.
We Drake students are fortunate enough to have two libraries on campus: Cowles Library and the Drake Law Library in Cartwright Hall.
Cowles is a great place to study and do homework because there’s a spot for everyone. I highly encourage going on an adventure in the library and searching for that spot that makes you want to sit down and get some homework done.
Even if you’re not a Drake Law student, I’ve heard you can still study in there. In fact, one of my professors advised us to go in there, take a random law book off the shelf and bring it with you to a study spot. That way no one in there can hassle you about being there. However, don’t go in there with a group of friends because they will ask you to leave then.
My mom would always tell me that in order for a baby to sleep soundly, they need some white noise, like a fan or the TV on in the background. I believe wholeheartedly that this white noise idea also applies to college students.
Case in point: Mars Cafe. Going off-campus to Mars is a great option for anyone who needs to get out and get focused (or enjoy a cup of fantastic coffee). The combination of music and the typical cafe noises that aren’t too loud make the perfect sound mixture for a study space. There are also a variety of places to sit in there, which is important because then you can switch it up regularly.
Finding a place to do homework and study is an essential part of being in college. I encourage you to go exploring and find spaces that make you want to study. It may be a challenge, but it’s definitely one worth taking on.
