The adrenaline of cramming for final exams begins as the final week of classes comes to a close. Students must now make the decision of where they want to hold down the fort and study on campus for the days leading up to their exams.
USC has a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces for students to dive into the books and make their flashcards, and in hopes of helping you decide where to study, we surveyed students and visited the top study spots on campus.
Most recommended: Leavey Library
Pros: On every floor, there are water fountains to keep you hydrated during this stressful time of year, and there’s no drought of outlets either, making this a good option for hunkering down. There are also printers for student use and a variety of spaces for everything from sunlit naps to study groups with your besties.
“I like the spots by the window. You get a little sunlight,” said sophomore Makai Singleton. “It’s not just like a library in the dark. You sit by the windows, study, [and] get some sunlight.”
Cons: Unfortunately, the late-night hours make Leavey a very popular study destination. Even at noon on a Thursday, the library was already getting busy.
Who should study here: Students trying to cram a semester of knowledge before the big exam and those working late into the night would fit right in at Leavey.
“If it’s late-night, Leavey is always the best option,” said Helen Son, a senior studying health promotion and disease prevention.
Best vibes: The Village
Pros: The Village offers the perfect opportunity for caffeine runs or a quick bite to eat. As an added bonus, dogs are often in the Village, giving students a much-needed serotonin boost from that four-legged bundle of fur.
“The couches of the Village are great,” Son said.
Cons: Make sure to bring your electronic devices with a full charge because there are no outlets, and, chances are, you’ll have to contend with glare from the sun, chilly weather and wind.
Who should study here: Students who know they should study, but are not opposed to socializing.
Most secluded: Science and Engineering Library
Pros: Walking to the Science and Engineering Library, it’s clear that the students studying here prioritize privacy. Inside, there are two study floors — both featuring oversized windows to let in natural light — and the study area on the second floor really brings the cozy vibes.
Cons: The low ceilings and hospital-like lighting can make this study space seem uninviting.
Who should study here: Students who really need to study without the distraction of possibly running into friends.
“It’s always empty in there,” said Jacob Marshall, a senior business administration major.
Best views: School of Cinematic Arts (SCA)
Pros: The balconies offer sunlight and shade while also providing a serene study space. Most importantly, views during golden hour cannot be beat.
“I set up tables that are stacked on top of each other, so I have a desk that’s eye level. And I work there for hours,” said Roy Gantz, a junior public relations major. “But, if you go there, you need to give me priority. Don’t steal it.”
Cons: The balconies are hard to find if you don’t know where to look and are also exposed to the elements, so a jacket is definitely recommended.
Who should study here: The SCA balconies offer the perfect chance for students to take a break from studying in enclosed library spaces with harsh overhead lighting and get some sunlight.
Most peaceful: Doheny
Pros: Located in the center of campus, Doheny Library is the picture of grace and elegance, with tall windows that allow copious amounts of sunlight. Inside, there are rows and rows of bookcases and tall rooms with grand ceilings.
“The Doheny book stacks [are] always empty,” said Marshall.
Cons: One notable thing is the silence…you can hear a pin drop. There is certainly no white noise, and the overall vibe is very studious.
Who should study here: Students who need to concentrate on their work without distraction. Doheny is not the place for shenanigans.
And with that, we at Annenberg Media wish you all good luck this exam season!