As Columbia students, we are lucky to be able to live and learn on a beautiful campus in a student-centric neighborhood while, at the same time, having access to the expanse of New York City. On campus, there are countless places to work, read and study. Butler, Avery, Brooks Lounge and The Diana Center are the spots that first come to mind. But, there are hidden gems on campus, around Morningside Heights and throughout the city that are worth trying out. You may find that a change of scene helps pop the ever present "Columbia Bubble" and that a new work environment reinvigorates your thinking.
On campus...
Try annotating a book for English at one of the tables outside of Milbank Hall. These tables are a good size for one person and under the shade of an awning. The somewhat secluded but not-too-quiet setting will give you enough privacy to focus, but not so much that you go insane from isolation. Utilize this area and take advantage of the fresh air before we get deeper into the fall season and temperatures plunge.
In the area...
If you finish class early one day and feel like taking a bit of walk before buckling down to do work, head down Broadway to Le Pain Quotidien on W 91st with your problem sets in hand. It should take about 30 minutes to get there - a good amount of walking to get your blood flowing post-lecture but not too much that the trek eats into your schedule. This popular french café has locations all around New York City, and is a great place to get lunch with friends or just coffee on your own. If you buy an iced latte and sit at one of the small tables for a few hours, they won't kick you out. It is a very relaxed and hospitable environment with great food. Doing work in an area slightly removed from campus is a great way to practice self-care.
Around NYC...
Are you in the mood to go downtown but feel bad leaving the library? Compromise by bringing your books with you on the subway and going to Pi Bakerie on Broome Street. I spent a lot of time here reading and writing over the summer. It is a small cozy Greek restaurant with amazing food and a really fun vibe. But it's still serious enough of an environment that you could get some light reading and annotating done easily. There's indoor and outdoor seating, and a quiet mini-park across the street full of benches if the restaurant gets too busy around lunchtime. Great shopping is only part of what SOHO has to offer. Little spots like this are great for socializing but can also be used as exciting new study locations.
