How to Handle Midterm Madness: Best study spots on campus
By Samantha Carey
October 31, 2021
Image Credit: Samantha Carey for The Campus Trainer
In the midst of midterm season, students can become overwhelmed by the content on exams, the length, the time limit, etc. Finding a place to sit down, focus and study can be incredibly difficult. However, the University of Maryland’s campus provides many locations with snacks to keep students grounded and ready for testing.
Image Credit: Samantha Carey for The Campus Trainer
One of the locations I have used to study and do work is Knight Hall, the Philip Merrill College of Journalism building. The spacious interior and array of seating provide a comfortable and quiet space to sit down and spread out your many study materials.
One of the most important aspects of studying is being able to focus without distractions in a calm environment, and Knight Hall provides that.
Another go-to location for studying with a treat is your own desk. The quietness and focus of one’s room can go a long way.
Aadhiti Vallatharasu, a sophomore government and politics major and law and society and business management double minor, raved about one of her favorite drinks to study with: coffee.
“It gets me motivated and in the mood,” Vallatharasu said.
Vallatharasu’s favorite coffee drink is from Dunkin’ Donuts. “I get an iced caramel latte with cold foam every once in a while and it makes me feel more productive,” she said.
Image Credit: Samantha Carey for The Campus Trainer
McKeldin Library is another popular location for studying, snacking and socializing. As you walk in on the first floor, a mini cafe awaits you next to a mini convenience store filled with candy, snacks and other drinks. My go-to order is an iced caramel macchiato or a Pure Leaf raspberry-flavored tea.
There are seven floors to choose where to camp out, with some imposing more silence than others.
My favorite floor is the sixth floor, where I’m able to sit in a big instruction room with a few of my friends and get work done into the late hours of the night.
One key feature is the library is open 24 hours a day, so as long as you have a university ID and provide verification with your student ID, you can stay for as long as you’d like.
Image Credit: Rion Kato for The Campus Trainer
When it comes to snacks, one of my favorites is chex mix or trail mix. Both of these snacks have a wide variety within their packages, keeping each bite interesting. These snacks help me focus, and I use them to reward myself while studying. They are easy snacks that don’t make much of a mess and provide some nutrients for the body.
Rion Kato, a sophomore biology major, said she studies best in McKeldin Library.
“I have an organic chemistry exam and I find it more effective to study in places that aren’t my room so I can be more productive,” Kato said. She also enjoys studying in locations that are quiet working environments.
Lastly, if you live in an apartment or suite, the common area may be the perfect study place for you. I currently reside in Talbot Hall, and I use the common area all the time for doing work, eating and studying. Sometimes, having company as you study is a relaxing way to focus too.
I always enjoy the presence of my roommates with me, and when we all sit down to get work done together. If you’re more into a socialized studying location, a common area is definitely a location to accomplish this.
Ultimately, finding the right study spot for you can be incredibly beneficial to absorb the information you need to know and do well on your upcoming exam. The University of Maryland provides these areas that students can use to find focus and do work.
Image Credit: Samantha Carey for The Campus Trainer