Wi-fi, check. Favorite drink on the menu, check. Outdoor seating, check. Even though I am no longer in school, I still value and understand the importance of a great study spot.

Throughout my five years of undergrad at two different schools (two years in western Massachusetts and three years here in western North Carolina at Warren Wilson College), I frequented local coffee shops until I found those ones that felt "right" and were most conducive to my study habits.

Fortunately for me— and anyone else whose focus and productivity is supported by caffeine and the steady rhythm of muted conversation— the Asheville area is home to quite a few great coffee shops, several of which conveniently moonlight as bars later in the day. From what I have experienced, in true Asheville fashion, most— if not all— of the shops I review either roast their own organic fair-trade beans, buy from a local roaster and/or locally source as many of their products as possible.

Now, because I work at one of the shops on this list, I aim to judge solely on the ambiance (potential distractions, seating options, etc.) rather than the quality of their coffee and food or customer service (which are bound to be great here in western North Carolina!).

1. The Dripolator Coffeehouse: For Coffee and Conversation

In the summertime, the Drip—in the center of Black Mountain—might not be the place to study as it is frequented primarily by tourists and summer camp kids and can get quite loud; finding a seat might be tough. The rest of the year, however, it's primetime for studying with functional tables, comfy couches and a desk tucked away in a corner.

Wi-Fi: Yes

Favorite Drink: Cubano

Outdoor Seating: Yes, but minimal.

2. Dynamite Roasting Company: For The Ordinary Type Who Likes Extraordinary Coffee

Dynamite boasts an expansive record collection, which can help fuel some creative energy, but can also be a bit of a distraction. The fact they operate sans guest wi-fi is actually a blessing because it is much easier to complete readings--no wi-fi means no distractions from my email or Facebook. Their hours cater more toward the 9-5 schedule rather than the more non-traditional schedules college students might keep.

Wi-Fi: No

Favorite Drink: Iced Americano

Outdoor Seating: Yes

3. Filo Pastries: For Dreamers

Generally a super relaxed place with awesome vibes, seating may be hard to find on the weekends. But, hours are awesome for you late-night studiers (open until midnight Monday-Saturday). Dark and cool somewhat minimalistic interior, interesting vibe for a café.

Wi-Fi: Yes

Favorite Drink: It includes coffee and alcohol and whipped cream.

Outdoor Seating: Yes

4. Firestorm Cafe & Books: For Book Lovers

In addition to the typical café seating, there are several cozy window nooks in the bookstore area. If you are a voracious book-lover, this might be a difficult place to get any work done because it's hard to ignore the countless bookshelves waiting to be perused If you happen to be vegan, this is definitely the place for you.

Wi-Fi: Yes

Favorite Drink: Iced Chai Tea

Outdoor Seating: No

5. High Five Coffee Bar (Rankin Ave location): For The Creative Type

Finding a seat— and one with an outlet—at High Five can be hit or miss, but if you have options, go for the bar at the window as the people-watching is prime during your study breaks. Bright and sunny, usually quiet and full of studious people on laptops.

Wi-Fi : Yes

Favorite Drink: Iced Americano

Outdoor Seating: No

6. Izzy's Coffee Den: For The Studious Type

Literally feels like a den—dark, cool and hushed, even when there's sound. Great place to sit and get some work done, but prepare yourself if it's busy, it can feel too small and claustrophobic.

Wi-Fi: Yes

Favorite Drink: Chai Latté

Outdoor Seating: No

7. Moments Coffee Bar & Eatery

To be perfectly honest, I've only been to Moments once (even though I live right down the street) because it is inconspicuously located in a little shopping plaza in Swannanoa (right next to the authentic La Bamba Burrito Express). Though it doesn't look like much from the road, I am definitely going to become a regular as it's quite comfortable inside with some interesting art, armchairs and a chess board.

Wi-Fi: Yes

Favorite Drink: Strawberry Banana Smoothie

Outdoor Seating: No

8. The Owl's Nest: For The Student On-the-go

Though locate on the campus of Warren Wilson College, the Owl's Nest is open to the public and great for daytime studying, even if you are not a student there. If having bustle and chatter in the background helps you focus, this is the place for you as there is a constant influx of students running between classes.

Wi-Fi: Yes, if you have a student login, but, if you are using the guest network, good luck.

Favorite Drink: Maté

Outdoor Seating: Yes

9. World Coffee Café: For The Poetic Type

Super secret study nooks in the back rooms--you're lucky if you snag a spot. Great people-watching if you sit in the front windows. The rustic interior and design elements give it an authentic and I've heard some questionable information about the owner's treatment of Asheville's music and street performers, but that might be hearsay.

Wi-Fi: Theoretically yes, but the connection is very spotty and I was never able to stay connected. (Also, good luck finding a power outlet if you need one.)

Favorite Drink: Chai Tea

Outdoor Seating: Yes

There are many coffee shops I have yet to visit, such as Battlecat in west Asheville, any of the three Green Sage Café locations and PennyCup downtown, but I intend to make my rounds soon.