My top-five choices of where one can get to work or enjoy some much-needed relaxation
By Grant Rambo
Kutztown University hosts many diverse locations ranging from cafes to enjoy some coffee or to the grassy field of the “DMZ.” But I have my personal favorite locations for the optimal study environment. These choices come from my experiences with how much work I have accomplished in one long study session, to how comfortable I may find a particular chair as I lean in toward my laptop to type away for hours at a time.
So, without further delay, allow me to share with you my top five study locations that KU has to offer.
#1: The second floor of Starbucks
Located at the McFarland Student Union, Starbucks itself serves as a great place for meeting people and tasting some sweet cappuccinos. But its second floor is complete with excellent chairs that accommodate any back shape, an array of two-person tables and a long conference table. The whole room shines as the example of a balanced academic workplace and social meet-space best for any casual chat.
I find one of the two-person tables the perfect place to fit my laptop, charger, phone, and the occasional caffeine-rich beverage. And nothing is more pleasant than listening to the dulled rumble of the rain as my fingers fanatically type away.
In the end, this tried-and-true location is amazing for just about any occasion, academic or otherwise.
#2: The South Dining Hall (first floor)
I consider South Dining Hall’s first floor to be the pinnacle of social engagement, with foods of seasonal varieties, and of course, ample space for working on assignments. Whether it be enjoying the coolness descending from the large air vents, the clacking coming from the pool tables, or even relishing the sounds of sizzling pizza and the crunching of ice from soda machines, there is no doubt that South stands supreme in terms of liveliness.
Whenever I enter South I can’t help but feel the voices and laughter of others put me at ease. Such a relief comes in handy when you’ve spent the last few hours poring over class notes, tests, as well as having to run across campus.
And at the top of the stairs overlooking the first-floor there is a small computer room perfect for any student’s needs.
#3: McFarland Student Union commuter lounge
Before you say, “You have the MSU on this list twice, what gives?” I will quickly answer by saying “It’s my list of favorite study spots. Deal with it!”
Anyway, I have only recently discovered the pleasant “warmth” this room provides. From its utilities, ranging from a column of desktop computers to the soft seats with adjustable mini-tables ready for use, I find the position of this room to be phenomenal for anyone who wants to sit in relative quiet contrasting the bustle expected from the rest of the building. And if you prefer a quiet space while still wanting just enough commotion, then this place should be the perfect fit.
#4: The open space on the second floor of Rohrbach
Hovering just above the entrance to the Rohrbach Library and up the small flight of stairs, stretches a large room full of ample lighting. Conjoining the “upper wings” of Rohrbach together, the specific spot I have in mind is located in the exact middle of the upper wings. With two safely guarded holes that allow the sounds of chatter and printers below to float upwards, and the light of day shining down from above, it serves as a balance of sensory input and ambient white noise. And if one needs to take a stroll on this floor from end to end, the more open plan allows for a wonderfully quiet lap to keep the leg cramps at bay.
Though one should take heed the risks of slamming their knee into one of the struts holding up the desks. Believe me, I have fallen victim to that many times.
#5: The DeFrancesco vestibule
I am so thankful to have attended KU when I did because I adore the “new building smell” of DeFrancesco. Following the recent renovations to the business building of KU, the bright white walls, and handsome main entrance and lobby create an excellent place to complete assignments back-to-back, especially on the eve of the finals.
The specific spot I have in mind would have to be the tables standing close to the doorway. With the natural light outside illuminating the lobby with such warmth and the sounds of doors parting, shoes stomping, and the fuzzy murmur of students going to wherever their agendas require of them, I find it all very comforting.
Highly recommend any day.
(And the chairs in the vestibule have done wonders for my back pain.)
Now of course, these are just some of my own top picks for best study spots across KU’s beautiful campus. And like all things relating to one’s judgment, it is all subjective. Maybe in reading this, you have considered some of your own personal picks for study spots. You might downright despise the ones I have chosen. Either way, I hope you find your best study spot, and succeed in being comfortable and studious as the semester continues.