One of the most important things I’ve realized in college is that everyone studies differently. Growing up in Florida, a great deal of my educators stressed to us children that to properly study, you must be in a quiet room, without distraction, giving 100% of your focus on your work. I’ve found that’s just not the case for the vast majority of people. Finding my right study pattern is probably one of the most important take aways that I’ve received from college- but seeing other peoples study habits has been just as valuable to me because I’m able to try things out and see what best fits me as my needs change.

I’ve found that I like to study either in a public space where I can hear/see other people around me, but I’m not necessarily talking to them. I realized that I also like background noise, like a gentle humming of activity. I also really enjoy taking up lots of space at tables, because I like to spread out and stack all of my books. From friends, I’ve learned that I enjoy sitting in a space that has natural sunlight (after hours of studying, it really helps you to feel like your internal clock is still keeping up with the day). I’ve also learned that I taking a quick walk around is good for me- sometimes where you’re so focused on studying and you hit a wall, it’s hard to overcome it. But getting up really helps me out!

I found that a space for me on campus that includes most of the above things is my carrel in Carpenter library. Below is a list of top 5 things I keep at my carrel:

1. School Supplies! I always have everything I need at my carrel so I can sit down and focus on the work at hand, rather than having to gather all of my supplies. I have my books, but also pens, pencils, and paper just in case I run out from my backpack.
2. Decorations! It’s really nice to study in a space that feels comfortable. I’ve found that by decorating my carrel, I have claimed some sort of invested interest in it, which makes me feel more comfortable coming to it to study.
3. Colored pencils/a coloring book! I really enjoy doodling, and it’s the perfect mental break from studying. It’s really peaceful just to sit down and color in a coloring book because it’s mindless but you still are getting enjoyment from the activity.
4. A USB charger! I find that having a USB charger is really helpful because I can charge my phone, or plug in a side light that Lillian bought.
5. Words of Encouragement! Sometimes you’re not in the mood to study and get work done, but you have no choice. I find that little notes to pep me up really help me to refocus and be productive.

These are some things that I value and that work for me, but again, everyone is different!