Here at Hopkins, we take studying seriously. We’re notorious for being a university filled with hard-working students who are willing to dedicate a good portion, if not all, of their time to academics. Fittingly, we have a plethora of study spots to choose from within our beautiful campus, so whether you like a silent spaces or social settings, group work or independent learning, there is a perfect place for you.
Hutzler Reading Room
Nicknamed “The Hut,” the reading room in Gilman is the ideal spot to knock out an essay, finish your great American novel or simply spend the day with your nose in a book. The reading room is best for students who prefer a quiet environment, but don’t want to be completely isolated from their peers.
The open and spacious room has big tables where you can spread your materials out without feeling claustrophobic or cramped. If you have time, situate yourself in one of the super comfy leather chairs in front of one of the stained glass windows and settle in for a long stretch of silent reading or a quick nap between classes.
Brody Learning Commons
Brody is one of the busiest and most popular study spots on campus, and for good reason. Tons of students flock to Brody because it has a social vibe, making it ideal for group studying. Reserve a room and work out your equations and problems by scrawling over the windows and whiteboards or take a study break and perfect your doodling skills (like the rest of us do).
When you can’t keep your eyes open, head to the Brody Café for a fancy coffee drink like a Jitterbug or a Ferrero Rocher. In the mornings, grab a hot breakfast sandwich – just make sure to get there early because the bagels sell out fast! Brody is open 24/7, so if you’re in a sticky situation and absolutely need to pull an all-nighter, this building is your savior.
Milton S. Eisenhower Library
When you have midterms or finals coming up, your best bet is to head to the library. Open until 3 a.m., MSE has got your back for your research and printing needs. It also has many levels to explore. The upper levels are great for casual studying or chatting with friends. However, if you have work that requires a lot of focusing, don’t expect to get much done because it can get quite loud.
For those times where you really need to buckle down, set yourself up in a cubicle on a lower level where it’ll be absolutely silent and free of distractions. But remember to come up for air; hours in D-Level aren’t good for anyone’s health. With the diversity of environments, the library has a place to please everyone, dedicated studiers and social butterflies.
Gilman Atrium
This bright and airy spot is a favorite location for many students to chat with professors or catch up with friends over an excellent cup of coffee and a fancy pastry. Alkimia, the cafe adjacent to the atrium, serves up amazing sandwiches and salads, but the student favorite is definitely their empanadas. This is the ideal place for engaging in lively debates or collaborating with classmates for group projects. The atrium can get pretty noisy during the day, but the continuous stream of conversation and energy create a stimulating and fun environment that is enjoyable to immerse yourself within.
Mudd Atrium
When you need to go a little bit off the beaten path, check out the Mudd Atrium. This space houses an eclectic mix of seating, so you can choose what suits you best from tall, bar-style chairs to plush red couches and the nice collection of rocking chairs. The big glass windows make it a perfect place to get some heavy reading and problem sets done on a rainy (or sunny) day. Grab a latte from The Daily Grind and settle down in a rocking chair while you peruse your textbooks.
But be prepared for constant interruption by tour groups. Soon you’ll have no problem spouting off their speeches word for word. The Mudd Atrium has a quiet, coffee-shop vibe that will make any afternoon spent studying feel cozy and calm.
Your Dorm Room
Studying in your dorm can be a tricky business because you have all the comforts of home within reach and the temptation to procrastinate grows exponentially. Instead of trying to study in your room, use it to relax and take a much needed break from your work.
Sometimes you just want to take a nap in your own bed or watch Netflix or make some Easy Mac and chill out. So make a cup of tea. Eat some instant ramen. Binge watch a few episodes of your favorite show. Then head back out there and get back to studying feeling refreshed and revived.
