Unfortunately, with COVID-19 still spreading through our country, a majority of us have locked ourselves in our rooms for hours on end… myself included. However, as our workload begins to increase and midterms come upon us, we have to remember that the library and our dorm rooms aren’t the only safe places to go to study. Here are some quiet and scenic locations on campus to try out when you’re preparing for those A’s.
Zen Garden – Thanks to my religion class this semester, I now know about the zen garden. This cute, hidden greenery can be found behind the parking lot on the right side of Bellarmine Hall. There are benches to sit on and a pool of water that gently stirs – a perfect place to relax and hit the books!
Bellarmine Hall – Behind Bellarmine Hall, there is a huge clearing of land where you can see all of Fairfield and the surrounding beaches. It is absolutely stunning, and so is the view of the vivid sunsets each night. I find this spot extremely soothing and a great place to get some fresh air. Grab a blanket, bookbag and some snacks, and you will be set for the rest of the day.
Barnyard Fountain – Another spot on campus that produces the nice white noise of splashing water can be found near the Barnyard Manor and the Leslie C. Quick Center for the Arts. This pond is home to a beautiful fountain and a family of ducks. There are benches to sit on, but I personally like laying down on a blanket in the grass instead.
The Quad – I don’t think I could ever study in the Quad because of the constant crowd of students walking to class, but I always see a handful of people out on the lawn chairs or laying in the grass getting their homework done. If you don’t get distracted easily, I would highly recommend doing your assignments there, at the heart of campus.
As temperatures drop, these outdoor spots might not be the most desirable places to go and study. Luckily, there are still many more locations indoors that can be used to your advantage.
Hall Lounges – Even though you’re still in your dorm building, a change of scenery from your room to the lounges can definitely help stimulate motivation to get work done. Depending on which hall you’re in, you can make reservations online 48 hours in advance to secure a safe, COVID-free environment. I have used Regis’ lounge a couple of times, and it has definitely helped me finish my homework.
Dolan School of Business – This incredibly new, clean and beautiful building is open to all students until 10:00 p.m. There is even a self-serve Dunkin’ Donuts where you can get coffee to keep you awake! I haven’t been in here yet, but I know that when it gets colder outside, I will definitely be taking advantage of this study space.
Marion Peckham Egan School of Nursing & Health Studies – Whether you’re a nursing student or not, all are welcome to come in and work on their assignments in the Nursing school. This gorgeous building is open until 10:00 p.m. as well. I’ve used the study rooms in this building a few times and it has been a super nice experience.
Lower Level of the John A. Barone Campus Center – The BCC is another great place to study since it has a very similar setting to the library. Every time I have walked into this building, it is so quiet. Plastic tables are socially distanced on the lower level for anyone who needs the space to do their school work. Along with that, the Stag Micro Market and vending machines are only a couple of steps away to suppress any study-time cravings.
Whether you choose to take advantage of these locations provided on campus or not, I wish you all good luck on any upcoming tests and assignments you have. However, don’t forget that a grade doesn’t define you!
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