Unconventional Study Spots

Studying, a crucial and unavoidable aspect of the college experience, requires a certain environment that dorms and the library can sometimes fail to provide. Check out these photos and suggestions for some new and unconventional study spots.  

Marston Hall

Marston Hall: not just for engineering students anymore. The recently remodeled building offers new study amenities such as easy to use wall monitors and conference room seating, making collaborative study sessions a breeze.

Ames Public Library

The Ames Public Library is a space often ignored by Iowa State Students. Easily accessed by the Red Line Cyride, the library is a bright, modern space and a quiet study environment,. With plenty of outlets, you can avoid the inevitable electrical outlet crisis that hits Parks Library during prime study hours.

Memorial Union West Lounge

Need a place to study that feels a bit more like home? Check out the West Lounge. It’s full of comfy chairs and couches, you could even sneak in a nap if no one is watching. The lounge is often quiet aside from occasional piano music, and boasts a great view of Lake Laverne.

In a Hammock

Want an even better view of Lake Laverne than in the West Lounge?

Hang up a hammock next to Lake Laverne and study away. Many outdoor spots on campus can still connect to campus wifi. Want to venture a bit farther off campus? Bring a textbook and go device-free.

Food Science Courtyard

If in need of a little paradise in the middle of a busy day of classes, look no farther than the Food Science Courtyard. The quiet courtyard offers a beautiful fountain, trees, and a grassy area that is the perfect place to study on a sunny day.

Reiman Gardens

Often ignored as a potential study spot, Reiman Gardens is a great place to study on a cold winter day. The indoor gardens offer benches for seating, wifi and could even help you forget that you’re in Iowa in the winter. Even better, Reiman Gardens are free to visit for ISU students.

Coffee Shop

Coffee shops, quintessential college study spot. For a quick on campus spot, check out the Hub. Have more time?

Venture down to Main Street and hit up Cafe Diem, Morning Bell or the Vinyl Cafe– all have great coffee, free wifi and less students during the day if a little isolation is what you crave. Main Street is easily accessible from campus with a quick bus ride on the Red or Green lines.

Gilman Courtyard

Ah, Gilman. A dreaded building for many who only visit it for its testing center. However, on either side of Gilman are two peaceful courtyards, a perfect space to sit and study with a little fresh air. Next time you have to cram for an exam before running to the testing center, try the nice quiet courtyard.