I Wish I'd Known Sooner #3 - Weldon is Overrated: Alternative Places to Study

Ah yes, nothing says holidays are approaching than trying to find a place to study for your winter exams.

Think finding a parking spot on Christmas Eve is impossible? Try finding a cubicle in Weldon at 2pm, weekday or weekend once the last week of classes hit. In fact, if you think that getting to Weldon after lunch on a Sunday will guarantee you a spot, think again. That spot with the electrical plug? Prime real estate.

Holidays are supposed to be a time of sharing, right? Wrong. At least, not when it comes to study spaces; one student will spread their notes across a big table in Weldon's basement, and no, they aren't exactly saving a spot for their study buddy.


So here is the last bit of advice for you before the holidays, because contrary to popular belief, Weldon is not the only library (or study space) on campus. Use it well.

1. Faculty Libraries
Those science kids are intense when it comes to studying at Taylor Library, and it's not just during exam time. I've seen people line up outside the library 15 minutes before it opens during exams, I'm not kidding. If you want peace and quiet, head to the bottom floors where you can set up shop in a cubicle. The Stacks are also a good quiet place to study, but you'll hear footsteps from the floor above you. The Music Library in Talbot College is small, with only a couple tables, but it's also another option. Check out the full list of libraries!

The affiliate colleges (King's, Brescia and Huron) also have libraries that usually aren't too busy. I hear the one at Brescia is really nice and very Harry Potter-esque.

2. Classroom buildings
If you're lucky, sometimes you'll find a free classroom to study in- imagine, all that open space! Social Sci is a good building to start with, otherwise, public spaces (such as Centre Spot in UCC, Lucy's in Somerville House) are also good options if you study well with background noise.


3. Western Rec Centre
Perfect for the student who needs some background noise and movement while they study. Busy location, but I mean, everyone there is plugged into their iPods, intent on their workout and won't bother you.

4. Rez Study rooms
Sometimes, trying to study in your Rez room can be really distracting. Luckily, there are study rooms available. Super handy, an added bonus is that you don't have to leave your Rez!