The second floor of Hesburgh library is great and all, but I think it’s safe to say that we can all use some variety in our study spots every now and then. So, I’ve compiled a list of some of the best study spots on campus so that you don’t have to endure the trials and tribulations of finding a new place to work.
Remick Family Hall
As Lady Gaga once said: “Amazing. Show-stopping. Spectacular.” Right by the dome, this cozy spot is equipped with a free supply of candy and snacks, as well as coffee and tea. The main room on the first floor of the building is a great place to work if you like a quiet environment. There are plenty of tables and comfy chairs to sit in. Imagine reading room vibes but with more natural light and free snacks.
Jordan Hall of Science
While dozens of students come in and out of Jordan every day, few of them visit one of the greatest study spots on campus. Hidden at the end of the hallway on the first floor, towards the right, there is a beautiful room with a high, dome-like ceiling. Tall windows stretching from the floor to the ceiling of each wall make this a great place to study during the day if you like natural light. This is also a great spot to go to if you need peace and quiet to work. However, if you’d like to talk, there is a more social room further left from the end of the hall.
Decio Faculty Hall
If you’ve ever been to Decio cafe for lunch, you’ll know that it’s an awesome spot for lunch wraps and sandwiches. However, you may not know that Decio is also a great spot for studying. The second floor has lots of tables and comfy chairs for working. The spots are usually well-lit with natural light during the day due to lots of windows, but it’s a good spot to work in at night as well.
Geddes Hall
Geddes Hall, home to the Center for Social Concerns, is a great spot to fall back on when the library is overflowing with students. Right next to the library, Geddes houses a variety of tables and booths, good for both quiet and collaborative work. It also has a decent amount of empty conference rooms that you can book or work in when they’re empty.
Corbett Family Hall
Right by Duncan Student Center, Corbett is a great spot that you can always count on to have an open seat. The second floor, home to the department of anthropology, has an open living-room-type area with couches and a few small tables for working. It is usually not a very busy spot, so if you come here with a friend you can talk or work quietly. The other floors of Corbett are great as well, with an array of small tables, comfy chairs and couches for working.
Pro tip: On the second floor, there is usually a bowl of candy outside one of the classrooms.
Fifth Floor of Duncan Student Center
Up the elevator on the fifth floor of Duncan is one of the calmest places to study on campus. Seated in one of the windows overlooking campus, you can catch a glimpse of the golden dome while you work. There is often jazz music playing on a low volume, which in my case was never distracting, however, if you’re worried, bring a pair of noise-canceling headphones. It’s a major upgrade from the buzz of students convening by Chick-Fil-A and the upbeat pop music blaring over the speakers at Hagerty.
