No matter the time of year, there’s always an opportunity to discover the perfect study spot on campus. Fairfield’s academic buildings, library and outdoor spaces offer a wide range of places to get work done as we approach the end of the second semester. While popular spots like residence hall lounges and private study rooms in the library are well-known, the campus also hides some lesser-known gems that are just as great for staying productive.
After my first semester, I’ve collected a few study spots that I, and many other students, enjoy on a daily basis.
The Lower Level Barone Campus Center is a great study space, dedicated to being silent during finals week, as students camp out at the set up chairs and tables. The couches and small tables are great to do leisure work and focus while being close to The Stag and Tully dining hall. The location of the BCC works perfectly for first-years to be in the middle of campus, being a mecca for study areas, the school store and access to food and snacks. Along with the LLBCC the study rooms located behind the locker banks 8 and 9 are open to students when there are no events being held. I used those rooms to study for my finals in December, specifically because of the whiteboards and the use of the shades going down so I could “lock in.”
Along with a huge campus center as a great study spot, there are tiny unnoticed areas outside that can be overlooked. The adirondack chairs in the freshman quad are a great place to focus on work and enjoy the warmly welcomed heat approaching. Gathering friends, putting in some earbuds and sitting on the white adirondack chairs is a great way to enjoy the weather and get homework done.
The top level of the library is a dedicated silent zone, making it the perfect place to dive deep into your work without unnecessary noise. With spacious tables and comfortable chairs, it’s a favorite among students who want to lose track of time while staying productive.
For a more versatile study experience, I head to the lower level of the library. Whether you’re working at the round tables or the divided study desks, the space adapts to your needs; ideal for tackling homework on your laptop or grabbing a book from the shelves.
First-year, Claire Colasuonno, has found comfort and works her best at Peet’s Coffee in the library main entrance. She enjoys going after her morning class and before her next class or on a break before eating lunch with friends. She frequents it, while getting an iced coffee, around 9 or 10 am.
On the other hand, Emily Matos enjoys going to the next building over, Dolan. Using a team room that faces campus is how she locks in to do her business homework, while stopping by Starbucks to snatch a refresher while the line is hopefully short.
Finally, a favorite of mine in the first semester, before my 6:30 PM Calculus class, are the small nooks on each floor of Bannow. They look out to the parking lot of the Leo D. Mahoney Arena, with two cozy chairs, comfortable silence and a realistic succulent plant. This area was a staple for me as I began some homework I received earlier in the day before my class.
Fairfield University’s campus offers many study spots that accommodate every student’s preferences and needs. From the versatile energy of the Lower Level Barone Campus Center to the peaceful silence of the library’s bottom floor, there’s a space for everyone to stay productive and comfortable. Whether you prefer cozy indoor corners or refreshing outdoor setups like the adirondack chairs in the freshman quad, you’re sure to find a spot that suits your style to study.