We all know everyone at Penn studies. But sometimes, despite the best intentions, it's where we study that makes all the difference. So check out these popular places on campus to see if your go-to study space is the real reason you never get to bed before 1 am.
Fisher Fine Arts:
You need to get work done, and you're the type of person who likes complete silence. Fisher Fine Arts library is no joke when it comes to talking, which can sometimes be problematic for people like me, who actually prefer a little background noise. Use Fisher if you really want isolation, but make sure before you enter that you're committing to an extended period of time of studying. Additionally, the historical interior is an interesting feature, but its gloomy ambiance can actually decrease productivity and leave you dosing off in your books. So make sure you bring a coffee and every textbook you own, but don't make too much noise when you flip the pages.
Starbucks Under Commons:If you're heading underground every night, chances are, you're looking for familiar faces just as much as you're looking to finish your work. UC is a great place to study in groups and chat with friends during study breaks, but it's not ideal if you need silence to really focus. And while the Starbucks and the nice fireside seating is a definite pro, sometimes the café makes me feel even more tired on long nights. So stick to coffee, headphones, and a table location if you need to get work done, but don't expect to be completely focused for your entire study sesh.
Van Pelt Underground:You're looking to get work done. This study hub is open 24 hours, so it's infamous for enabling many pre-exam all-nighters. It's relatively quiet, especially in the section furthest from the café, and the desks are large enough that you can actually spread out the 10 papers you're trying to read at once. The food in the accompanying café can be a bit sketchy, but it works for a late night coffee and possibly a snack if you really need one. However, use Van Pelt underground wisely. Too much time there can really take a toll. Reserve the extended hours for finals and midterms, and try other spots on this list if you find yourself grabbing dinner there more often than you'd like.
Your House:You're the type of person who doesn't need a change of location to get work done. Studying in your own house leaves you with the shortest commute, but beware of the distractions that may be more prevalent than you think. A change of location, like a library or café, can put you in a more work-oriented mindset. This being said, if you're the type of person who can study Bio while listening to your roommate talk on the phone next door, more power to you.
Saxby's:You're the type of person who knows a good study combination when you see one. Bringing your work to Saxby's means you like a study environment that has some background buzz but isn't overly loud. Another major pro is the café's close proximity to restaurants like HipCity, Greek Lady, and Chipotle, which are necessary elements of a successful study day. And while the tables are relatively small, they are big enough to hold your laptop, Saxby's fro-yo, and your large iced coffee. And if we're being honest, what else do you really need in life.
