JMU does a great job of offering good places for students to study in peace. Whether it's Madison Union or the tranquil third floor of Rose, any student can find a great spot to get work done. That being said, not every place on campus is the best place to study.
Here are 12 of the worst places on JMU's campus to study — remember them as the next semester gears up in a few weeks...
1. Inside Duke Dog Alley
Between the heavy foot traffic and the noise of racing cars overheard, it's unlikely that any work would get done inside Duke Dog Alley. The lack of seating is also a bit of a problem.
2. In an Eagle Hall bathroom
The worst area of one of the worst dorms on campus? No thank you. The constant stench of old popcorn bags and, well, toilets isn't conducive to studying.
3. In an Eagle Hall *shower*
Yikes. Even the thought of it is a bit nauseating. If you've ever used an Eagle Hall shower, you'll know that the sheer panic you feel after accidentally bumping into one of those slimy walls is enough to make you consider transferring dorms.
4. PC Dukes on a Saturday evening
It's great if you want to grab a few overpriced bottled coffees, but not so great if you're trying to finish a research paper. Dukes gets crowded on Saturday evenings because everyone's trying to use up all their extra punches, so finding a more quiet place would be prudent.
5. In the UREC pool
Where would you put your stuff to keep it dry? Where would you sit? The upside is that your tears of educational agony would blend right in, though, so maybe it's not the worst place in the world.
6. On the Quad when it's 20 degrees
I'm not bashing the Quad. When the weather is mild, it's an excellent place to stretch out and read a textbook. However, frozen fingers can't turn pages very efficiently, so it's best to wait until spring.
7. In the compost bin at Top Dog
Need I say more?
8. On a not-in-service bus
If you pried open the doors and begged to be let on, it might provide you with a quiet environment, but surely the awkward glances from the confused bus driver would make you want to leave. The poor driver's just trying to take a break.
9. On the D-Hall construction site
Dirt...everywhere.
10. In the middle of the Godwin steps during a class change
I get that Godwin has those nice little benches halfway up (for those of us who get winded easily), but it might be a bit uncomfortable. Has anyone actually sat there for more than 30 seconds before?
11. Carrier Library when all the seats are taken during finals week
It's a battle to the death to get one of those cubicles. You can forget about getting a whole table.
12. In the kitchens at D-Hub
Oh boy. I'm not sure I want to know exactly what goes on behind those doors. I'll take my homework elsewhere, thank you very much.
Where's your least favorite place to study?
