Where to study at Western

Caity Healy | Lifestyle Editor

It’s no secret that within the boundaries of Western’s campus lies several spots that would make the ideal study area. No matter your preference when it comes time to hit the books, the campus has a spot that will work well for you.

One of the most obvious spots that some students have yet to utilize is Hamersly Library. This location is ideal for multiple study types. If you like complete peace and quiet, the third floor will offer you not only entire silence, but bright lighting and windows to sit near and get work done. “I like the library,” commented sophomore ASL/English interpreting major Lexi Osborn, “It’s quiet and it’s really easy to get stuff done there.”

However, there are also perks to studying on the first floor of the library. “I like studying there at the dry erase tables,” noted junior business major Riley Hawken. “It’s a social hangout at times because you get to see people you know walking in and out of the library.”

The dry erase tables are also located right next to The Press, so you can grab your caffeine fix to keep you going and it won’t sacrifice much of your time.

Finally, the library offers the 24-hour room, which means that if you need a place to study, at any point in the day or night, you can find yourself in there.

If you wanted to work in the library, but find that it’s crowded, you can actually reserve spots to study in the Werner University Center. Or, if you walk to the far end of the second floor of the WUC, there are multiple couches and tables to study at, located right next to the Willamette Room.

If you like to study with music to keep you energized, a good place to go would be the Health and Wellness Center. With multiple couches on the first floor to keep you comfortable and bright lighting to keep you awake, this would be the ideal spot for someone who doesn’t mind a little bit of noise to keep you attentive and focused on your studying.

Another notable indoor place to include is DeVolder. It has huge dry erase boards for people to write on while studying, and many of the chairs include a desk attachment. Located right next to the Health and Wellness Center, it’s an easy location that doesn’t get too busy.

Ackerman offers study rooms to students, as well. They are first come first serve, but it’s worth checking out. Note that the doors do lock after 10 p.m. on weekdays, and it’s closed all weekend, so you’ll want to go before then.

If you’re someone who enjoys studying outside when it begins getting a little warmer, there are outdoor options as well. Studying in front of the WUC offers you several benches, tables and chairs. If you want to go somewhere a little more secluded, there are several tables located on the side of the Richard Woodcock Education Center that are rarely used. If you’re just trying to find a nice bench to sit on and read, the best option would be the ones located between the ITC and APSC building. With pretty views and hidden away from everyone, they will keep you focused and peaceful while you’re studying.

Contact the author at chealy16@mail.wou.edu

Photo by: Paul F. Davis