We’ve all been in situations that a good study spot could’ve easily saved us from.
Maybe our favorite space is suddenly crowded with freshmen cramming for Humanistic Tradition I. Maybe it’s finals week, and half of our 60,000 students are trying to bring those C's up to B's all at the same time and all in the same place.
At the risk of losing my own anonymity and peace in these frantic moments, I’m paying it forward to my fellow Knights (you're welcome) with the 5 best non-traditional study spots on campus.
Nicholson School of Communication Hallways
It may seem unusual, maybe even a bit exposed, but the NSC walls are lined with built-in desk/chair combinations that are perfect for one. The lighting is bright and useful, the people walking are loud enough for background noise but quiet enough for concentration, and wall plugs are readily available. It’s also perfect if you have a class in the building.
Empty Classrooms
Now, I’m not suggesting you go around breaking UCF rules. Classrooms are for classes. But as a tuition-paying student, classrooms are available to enhance your learning process. Nothing has helped me more when I’m in a pinch than the silence and privacy of a quarantined room. Classrooms are big, vacuous, well ventilated, and fully equipped. A lot of them remain empty all throughout campus for hours at a time. If people start pouring in for a class, it doesn’t take a previous Emmy nomination to act like you came in early for the wrong class and leave. I don’t suggest this as your main method, but it can be a seldom-used lifeline.
All Knight Study at the CFE Arena
Built into the CFE Arena, AKS II is a study gem only Towers residents seem to really use. If you don’t mind the walk to Knight’s Plaza, you’ll enjoy using this space to your advantage. There is a soundproof room in the lounge with large, project-ready tables and elevated chairs. There are also glass-lined study rooms and study cubicles for those who prefer doing things with zero chance of distraction. It’s never as full as the library or All Knight Study @ Ferrell Commons. Get ready to take out your student ID when you come in, as the entry rules have changed from last year.
Courtyard at the Burnett Honors College
“Sanctuary” is the first word that comes to mind when thinking of this hole-in-the-wall. This zen corner is hidden behind bushes and tucked away behind the Student Union. If studying outside is your thing, or if it’s cold enough to bear sitting outside for more than a few minutes, this is a place you’ll want to check out. The benches lining the edges are big enough for spreading out your books and bags. At dusk, the lights from the building spill outside for an atmosphere that resembles something out of Winter Park.
Second Floor of Millican Hall
The second floor of the stressful financial aid/registrar’s hub is surprisingly calming. Towards the back, facing the Reflection Pond and the library, is a floor-to-ceiling window panel. This serene and scenic display stands in contrast to the bustle of the library entrance and packs of students racing to class on the other side of the glass. There’s a row of 6-8 desk chairs facing the window, and the area is relatively calm, with the elevators behind being the only possible distraction.
