That frightening time is upon us once again. Students have begun to creep out of the crevices of their dorm rooms and migrate to their temporary homes at Richter Library, which can only signify one thing – it’s officially finals season. If the sight of Richter during these brief but tempestuous weeks causes your meek heart to flitter about with dread, fear not! There are great study spots in Miami that won’t cause you to accidentally scratch your back compulsively à la Black Swan from the anxiety in the air.
Barnes and Noble at Miracle Mile – Yes, Sunset Place has a Barnes and Noble, but the location at Miracle Mile is close enough to campus that it won’t be an impossibility to get there and far enough that it won’t cause you anxiety by osmosis. Its café area is typically populated by a smattering of young couples on terrifically hipster dates, so it’s chill enough to legitimately get some studying done amid the mild background noise. A great place to study in a group as well.
Music School Library – So you’re looking for a library setting that doesn’t have the same buzzy vibe as Richter? Try the Weeks library in Frost. Its medium-sized location makes it a safe bet that you can find seating, but it is usually very quiet, unlike so-called Club Richter.
Pinecrest Gardens – A ten-minute car ride from campus, this lush public garden has tables shaded by magnificent tropical trees. As relaxing a study locale as you can find in Miami.
C’est Bon Café – Located on the second floor at the Village of Merrick Park, C’est Bon Café allows you to have the ultimate study break food – crepes, Paninis, croissants, you name it. It’s open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays, so your daytime studying will be in the bag(uette).
First Floor of the UC – Right next to the breezeway, the first floor of the UC usually has tons of study groups and club meetings congregating, but during reading days is typically deserted. There are couches and tables, so whether you’re looking for a comfortable spot to relax with a textbook or a quiet table to work away, you’ll be set. Perk: you’re steps away from Oasis and the Food Court.
The Comm School Courtyard – Close to the LC lies this patio area, known mostly to Comm school kids as a great place to meet up with friends or have a quick bite to eat. The area is quiet and hidden away, and studying with the fresh air a-blowin’ is a great way to keep focused but also refreshed.
Staying calm and focused without the endless stress and chatter at Richter will be a cinch at any of these places, so check them out. Best of luck on finals!
words_kristen calzadilla. photo_courtesy of the frost school of music.