Five places to study on UGA’s campus to prep for finals week

Photo by Matt Ragland on Unsplash

By Denali Lerch

As the semester is reaching its end, coursework is in full swing and finals season is closer than you think– but don’t freak out just yet. If you are having trouble finding a good place to crack open a book and an environment that fits your study needs, UGA has plenty of options that accomodate all different types of students. Whether you enjoy the hustle and bustle of coffee shops or you’d rather be able to hear a pin drop, UGA’s campus has a place that fits your preferences. Here are five places besides the MLC or Tate where you can effectively study on campus.

Lamar Dodd School of Art

If you’re not an art student, this may not be the location you’d normally think of when deciding where to study. This building has a unique architecture and designs created by our very own classmates along with gorgeous works of art. You can surround yourself with enormous windows, beautiful sculptures and funky pieces of furniture to really amp up the vibe of your studying environment. So if you’re bored with your current study spot, take a trip down to the art school and experience a fun and unconventional place to study. 

Basement of Snelling

The Snelling Dining Hall is known for many different things: being open late for some “snellibrations,” hugs from Ms. Sandra and, of course, late night french toast sticks. However, down in the basement of Snelling is a nice, quiet nook for students to crack open their notes and computers. The cozy and homey feeling of the basement with its assorted couches and chairs provides a sense of comfort for students who are determined to pull an all-nighter. And if you really can’t pull through that all-nighter, you can crash on the couches there too. Just try not to oversleep.

Reading Room of the Main Library

Imagine this: it’s a few weeks before finals week and you decide to get a head start on your studying by going to the reading room on the third floor of the main library. You sit in the oval-shaped chairs facing the wall of windows looking out onto north campus, and you admire the changing colors on the trees and see students walking to class. It’s absolutely quiet, calm and serene. That’s what you can expect in the reading room of the main library, putting you in the right mindset to be as productive as possible. So, if this silent, still and calm atmosphere seems attractive to you, this is where you should be.

Founders Memorial Garden

On a beautiful fall day here in the Classic City, grab a blanket or towel and head on down through the hidden gates that lead into the Founders Memorial Garden. Here, you can spread out on the grass and listen to the trickling of the fountain, all while being surrounded by hedges and nature’s beauty. It’s quiet, even though it’s still in the middle of the hustle and bustle of campus, and it’s hidden in plain sight. So if you are interested in finding more ways to study and get some Vitamin D, the Founders Garden is a solid choice for you. 

Memorial Garden Book of Remembrance

If you are someone who thrives on taking deep breaths of fresh air while studying, this quiet oasis just right outside of the MLC is the right spot. Students walk past this area of granite memorials daily and sometimes fail to realize the significance of it. The purpose behind this memorial is to pause and remember those who have sacrificed their lives for our country, in addition to serving as a space of reflection and peace. Therefore, this area is perfect for those who can use tranquility and calmness while preparing for exams. 

These unique study spots provide the perfect environments to get you in the headspace to finish the semester strong.