If you’re like me, always torn between the need to get work done and the desire to explore, you know the value of being on the lookout for new study spaces. For me, studying in my dorm is impossible thanks to the fact that all my friends live on my floor, and Mugar gets monotous after several nights spent among its desks. Since my mind constantly wanders when I’m in a familiar setting, I often need a change of scenery in order to be productive.
After a semester and a half at BU, some of my best-kept secrets have been the uncommon study spots I’ve found throughout Boston. So without further ado, here are my favorite places to study in and around BU. You can thank me later.
1. Hogwarts-style studying
Bates Hall at Boston Public Library has been compared to Hogwarts for its majestic dome ceilings and long rows of tables. It’s beautiful to say the least, and doing work alongside its bookshelves always makes me feel like a proper scholar. It’s impossible to go in and out without having done some work.
2. Trident Booksellers
Going to Trident means great food paired with great atmosphere. Plus it’s an opportunity to venture to Newbury without breaking your wallet. Chances are you’ll be in good company with other students who visit Trident to study, especially on the weekends.
3. Coffeehouses
Starbucks in Kenmore Square and Pavement Coffeehouse on Comm. Ave. each offer a great place to read texts or write essays for the price of one cappuccino or latte. Frequented by students, both spots makes it hard not to get to work done with people busy at laptops all around you as you enjoy your coffee.
4. Rooms with a view
For East Campus students, the 9th floor of Kilchand Hall, and floor twenty-six of StuVi2 for those in West provide study lounges up and away from the noise. Take a break from staring at your laptop screen to glance at the Charles or the city skyline from these lounges with spectacular views.
5. Group study spaces
Need a little background noise to be productive? The COM study lounge on the first floor is a great place to do work in between classes in a creative atmosphere; this is where groups meet and TAs hold office hours. The first floor lounge of Kilachand Hall, open 24/7 to students, is a favorite setting for study groups as well.
6. Smaller study spaces
Less room equals less people equals less distractions. On the fifth and sixth floors of 100 Bay State, the tiny spaces with couches and chairs are perfect for quiet reading. This is where meetings with Career Services take place, but if it’s empty it’s yours to claim for working.