As much fun as Clemson’s social aspect is, we can’t ignore the real reason we’re all here: to earn a degree. This means finding the best study spot on campus where your brain power can really shine. But don’t worry, whether you study better in silence, sunlight or a social setting, there’s a perfect place for everyone. Here are just a few of my favorites.

First and foremost, an obvious choice is the Robert Muldrow Cooper Library. This is where most students study — and basically live — during the semester. Each of its six floors is designed to fit different needs, from silent spaces on the lower levels to collaborative, social zones on the top.

The library houses essential academic resources such as writing support, digital media labs, Starbucks and a vast collection of books and databases. The third floor, voted Best Library Floor in The Tiger’s Best of Clemson contest several years in a row, stands out with its comfortable seating, vending machines, private rooms, writing lab and even a children’s and young adult book section. With late-night access and a central location, it’s definitely a go-to spot for serious studying.

However, Cooper isn’t for everyone. Some students prefer spaces that are quieter or less crowded. One excellent option is the Academic Success Center, located near the heart of campus and behind Cooper Library. The Center offers reservable individual and group rooms, perfect for focused or collaborative work, and stays open late on most days, making it ideal for night owls who don’t want to study at the library.

The Watt Family Innovation Center is another favorite. Designed for collaboration and creativity, Watt features high-tech project rooms with whiteboards and digital screens, in addition to open seating flooded with natural light. It’s especially popular with students working on group or design-heavy projects.

Vickery Hall and the Hendrix Student Center are solid choices on the east side of campus. Vickery offers a quiet, low-traffic space that’s open to all. It has tutoring spaces, advising offices and individual and group rooms ideal for distraction-free focus. On the other hand, Hendrix offers comfy lounge seating, natural light and close access to Chick-fil-A, Panda Express and Einstein’s Bagels. Hendrix is great for casual studying or group work in a more social setting.

For those who study best outdoors, Clemson has plenty of options.

The Amphitheater is peaceful and scenic, perfect for reading in the sun. The Reflection Pond, located across from Cooper Library, offers shaded benches and the soothing sound of the fountain. Bowman Field is a wide, open green space perfect for lying out a blanket and soaking up the sun on campus while you work.

There are also study nooks in nearly every academic building, perfect for squeezing in some work between classes. While maybe not ideal for long study sessions, they’re great for quick reviews or last-minute cramming.

And don’t forget downtown! Plenty of local coffee shops, both downtown and a little further, double as excellent off-campus study spots. Favorites include All In Coffee, Summer Moon, Moe Joe, Andee’s Custom Blended Ice Cream and Grace Coffee Company, all offering a great cup and a quiet space to get things done.

Each study spot on or around campus has its own energy, and once you find the one that fits your style, studying can actually become something to look forward to.