When you first come to Clemson, the idea of finding the best place to study might be a little daunting. The obvious choice is the library, but where do you go when that fills up? R.M. Cooper Library is constantly packed, especially when midterms and finals come around, and while some of these may be familiar, it can be helpful to know some hidden study spots around campus — especially when you’re in a pinch.
The first hidden gem, while maybe obvious, is the lower floors of Cooper Library. Most students like to crowd the main entrances and collaborative spaces. The big tables can be nice for groups, as they provide ample space to sprawl, but the first and second floors are designated silent study zones. While some may prefer working in groups, these floors are ideal for when students need to lock in or have a late-night cram session. The side study carrels tucked along the walls are especially underrated because they offer privacy without the hassle of reserving a room.
Another overlooked spot is the Gunnin Architecture Library in Lee Hall. Many non-architecture students never step foot inside this building, which is exactly why it stays relatively calm. It has large windows overlooking the courtyard, modern furniture and quiet lower-level study carrels. Compared to the buzz of Cooper, the atmosphere is significantly more relaxed. Clemson Libraries even highlights the lower levels as a quieter, more independent-study area, making them perfect for reading-heavy assignments or longer study sessions.
For honors college students, the University’s Honors Center may be one of the best spots on campus. The building is open 24 hours a day for honors students and offers quiet study rooms, free coffee and small library spaces that might not be as crowded as other spots.
However, most of Clemson’s best study spots aren’t libraries at all. Personally, some of my best studying has been in academic buildings after class hours, or in an empty classroom. Many students overlook these, even though many of them remain open and nearly empty in the evenings. According to student recommendations, the basements of Sirrine and Hardin Hall are surprisingly quiet and usually have available seating, computers and printers.
A personal favorite of mine is the Hendrix Student Center. There are study areas on both the first and second floors, both housing different restaurants and vending machines, making the studying experience more enjoyable. The Academic Success Center is also an amazing place to study. An added bonus of the ASC is the tutoring that is offered there. You can check the tutoring schedule on the ASC’s website if you need extra help.
Outside may be an obvious choice, but it is often the best place to be. Around the beginning of the fall semester and the end of the spring, the weather is absolutely perfect for breathing in the fresh air and getting work done. Some personal favorites are outside of Hendrix Student Center, the Reflection Pond and various courtyards around campus. Open park benches can be spotted around campus; that’s where I get some of my best work done.
Part of the fun of college is discovering places that feel like your own. Clemson’s hidden study spots may not be as famous as Cooper Library, but that is what makes them so valuable.
Lauren Douda is a sophomore English and secondary education major from Lexington, South Carolina. Lauren can be reached at [email protected].
