Klayton Hoefler enjoys studying downtown at Spill the Beans.
Students head off campus to find unique study spots
Students have found a wide range of places where they can spread out and study. For many, these places become a familiar fallback from the library or their room when academic loads get heavy.
Outdoors
With the arrival of autumn weather, the gazebo and the tables outside Cuppa Jones provide pleasant outdoor alternatives. “I like to study outside because I’m cooped up in the classroom all day,” senior Morgan Ayers said.
Freshman Candace Alexander enjoys studying outside as well. “There’s a place in the woods that we’ve cleared out behind my house.”
Many students may think that they do not have a scenic forest available to them, yet Paris Mountain State Park—which offers picnic tables and a lake pier—is only 15 minutes away from campus.
Coffee shops
Coffee shops are often the default study spot for many college students.
Greenville is home to a unique selection of coffee shops. Spill the Beans, located downtown near Reedy River, is a great place for coffee or ice cream. “Ice cream makes studying better,” Morgan said.
A two-story building shaped like a slice of birthday cake, known as The Fix, is culinary arts major Anthony Milian’s first choice.
“The people treat you like family,” he said. On one visit, the barista gave Tylenol and free hot tea to Anthony’s friend who was sick.
The Fix is located near campus at the intersection of Wade Hampton Boulevard and Church Street.
Coffee & Crema, located in the Fresh Market shopping center, is a recent addition to Greenville’s menu of local coffee shops. “The coffee is so superior,” senior Adam Robitaille said.
Coffee & Crema’s owner and barista Shannon Hudgens explains why students like to study in coffee shops. “Students need a combination of a place to sit and relax, but [also one] that doesn’t distract so much that they don’t actually study. They look for a place they can meet in groups that’s not so sterile as a library or classroom. Students try to balance studies with a desire to relax and enjoy their college experience.”
“Coffee shops provide students with a third place to define themselves. It’s not your job, and it’s not your school,” Shannon said. “How you study says just as much about you as the subjects you’re studying.”
In a pinch
At times, homework loads extend beyond closing times. That is why junior commuting student Marla O’Brien said, “I like 24-hour places like Denny’s so I can have more time to get everything done.”
It’s important to respect business hours, so places that are open late or open 24 hours make good alternatives.
This list is only a sampling of all the possible places to study. With a little exploration and creativity, anyone can find the ideal place to stage his or her academic conquests.
