In the midst of dead week and with finals week approaching, it is seemingly apparent that study spots are growing slim. No longer are there an open range of tables to choose from on Fourth Davidson (if you don't get there before 11 a.m.) and outlets are scarce. It is a truly terrifying thing to arrive to the library, only to find yourself circling the floors of the library, just hoping to find one open spot. As I enter my sixth finals week here at UC Santa Barbara, I couldn't help but think to myself, "Is there a world of studying outside of the Library? Could there be untouched, coveted spots that I am not experiencing?" As a result of finals procrastination, I (with the help of a few friends) worked together to create a list of the best hidden study spots of UCSB.
1. SRB Patio.
I've noticed that no one really takes advantage of the sunny patio on the third floor of the SRB. While the stairs may seem daunting (trust me, I know), it will always be worth the quick sweat and thigh overload.
Pros: Fresh air, sunshine, abundant tables, prime people watching and bike-crash watching.
Cons: No outlets, availability dependent on weather conditions.
2. Girvetz Hall.
Another slightly obvious one, but it has a large amount of classrooms that are readily available once late night study at the lib is over.
Pros: Outlets, whiteboards, desks, private classrooms.
Cons: Building hallways have a slight horror movie vibe, hard to find an open classroom at times, desks are built for the size of a small child.
3. Bren Hall.
Arguably one of the best views at UCSB, this building overlooks the ocean and is normally pretty vacant. If ever there, then check out the patio on the second floor overlooking the ocean and take a deep breath.
Pros: Definite de-stresser, great view, cool looking building.
Con: Minimal outlets, weather dependent location.
4. Carrillo Pool.
While I am not one for outdoor studying without a table, I have heard that the dome lounge chairs at Carrillo are prime for studying if you would love to get a tan while getting work done.
Pros: Poolside, close to dining commons, closer to Isla Vista.
Cons: Outlets, weather, loud pool goers, risk of mixing sweat / sunscreen / water with schoolwork.
5. Third Floor UCen.
Ever wonder what was up the small hallway that leads you to the third floor of the UCen? Ever gone to the Food Bank / EAB and wondered what else was there? Study rooms -- a lot of them.
Pros: In the UCen, abundant food / coffee / bookstore essentials, low-key.
Cons: Slightly more run down, creep factor comes in strong late at night.
6. Davidson Fourth Floor, Room 4541.
When entering fourth floor off of the stairwell, everyone normally turns right. But, has anyone thought to turn left? This room is normally full (only been able to access once without interception), but it is probably one of fourth's best kept secrets.
Pros: Secluded, chalkboard, outlets.
Cons: Reserved often, very VIP-esque.
7. Engineering Cafe (Courtyard Cafe).
The first time I tried to find this cafe, it probably took around 30 minutes. However, once discovered, I was not disappointed in the slightest of ways. Not only are a plate of curly fries a mere $2, there are a large variety of snacks not accessible in the Arbor.
Pros: Quiet, a lot of booths, cheap food, abundance of smart people.
Cons: In Narnia, frustrating to find, extremely intimidating.
8. Mosher Alumni House.
Only open to the public for study hours during Dead and finals week, Mosher Alumni house has cushioned chairs, free snacks, tea and coffee. I can't think of anything more to ask for.
Pros: Free food, comfortable chairs, outlets, more on the low-key end.
Cons: Closes relatively early (11 p.m.).
9. Music Library.
Ending off this list, I have been told millions of great things about the library in the Music Building. There are private rooms, aux cords connected to vinyl record players and it's probably the lowest of the low-keys on this list.
Pros: Aux cords, privacy, maximum focus, quiet.
Cons: Creep factor maximum, closes at 10 p.m.
