With finals just practically here, you may be looking for ideal locations on campus where you can focus, go over your work, and finish those last major assignments. From bustling white noise to pin drop silent or a spot between the two extremes, here are some places that will meet your needs.
Bustling but effective: For students who need the background noise.
If you find yourself studying better surrounded by some energy, then the Natali Student Center is one of the best options. The airport lounge, booth seating area near Morning Flatz, and the food court are some of the top picks. Truly, you can always find a good seat anywhere in Natali. If you prefer some fresh air while you work, another good location is the turf area right next to the building.
Mild noise: Balanced and flexible spaces with light trafficked areas
For those seeking some level of peace without absolute silence, there are several alternative spaces to choose from. On a nice day, the Quad next to the gym and Umami, with some casual noise, is perfect.
The tables outside the dorms are also nice spots –air will do you wonders when dealing with a lengthy period of screen time.
For indoor study locations, the ground floor of Eberly Hall offers various places to sit and focus. Eberly also features a phone charging booth, making it easier to stay powered through long study sessions.
Other halls like Frich also have nice open study spaces with the occasional busy people traffic. The ground floor of the library building is another good place to work either alone or collaboratively, with the bonus of all the resources the library has to offer students.
Silent zones: For deep concentration and no distractions
As far as deep concentration is concerned, silence is mandatory for me. I personally favor lecture halls and empty classrooms that are not occupied during regular class hours. Outside of class time, lecture halls are typically empty, and thus they offer a good place for quiet work. Classrooms have timetables posted outside the doors, so you will know when rooms will be available.
The second, third, and especially the fourth floors of Manderino Library provide the needed silent atmosphere. Our campus has a variety of study rooms and conference rooms in the library. Each floor in the dorms also has study rooms jfor your convenience.
Don’t Forget our Campus Resources
Selecting an appropriate location is not everything, however. The Noss Hall accommodates important academic facilities, such as the Writing Center, where students can seek assistance with writing assignments, organizing, and citing sources. Other academic facilities are also accessible, so reaching out to them could be a lifesaver during finals
Among all the locations listed, many of them across campus have much needed supplies for studying, including printing stations and vending machines for quick snacks and drinks.
Hours to Know:
The Elmo Natali Student Center:
Monday–Friday: 6 a.m. – 12 a.m.
Saturday–Sunday: 8 a.m. – 12 a.m.
Louis L. Manderino Library:
Extended Hours For Finals ( April 27 to May 7)
Monday – Thursday: 7:30 a.m. – Midnight
Friday: 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Sunday: 2:30 a.m. – Midnight
Your spot is what fits your needs
It all boils down to one’s unique learning preference. For some people, an environment filled with energy and noise is required to be able to concentrate on studying; however, for others, being surrounded by noise is a distraction that will cause them to lose focus. Here at PennWest Cal, we have some great study locations that can fit anyone’s needs. Good luck, Vulcans!
