By Rico Palmerin

Staff Writer

CSUSM is jam-packed with various unique places to study, not all of which are as obvious as the campus library.

Some students enjoy a bit of noise to help to keep the energy up. For these students, the third floor of the library is always echoing with the clicks of keyboards and the shuffle of papers. The cafeteria, which is located in the Dome, can get pretty noisy, if serious levels of audio are suitable.

Finding the right place to sit down and review for that big exam may be the greatest barrier to studying. Take one step into the CSUSM library, and it’s clear how difficult it can be to find a seat or empty table. What is less obvious are the numerous study areas available on the fourth and fifth floors. Each floor provides students with several isolated study rooms and tables.

Students like Savannah Czyzewice noted the third floor of the library as the most popular and easily accessible study spot, but said that it is “way too loud.” Students looking for less distractions need to head to the fifth floor. It has a large reading room, perfect for those seeking pen-drop silence. If a hint of scenery is comforting, there are also plenty of tables lining the windows as well as an assortment of comfy chairs.

Students may want a more scenic view to get in the zone. While CSUSM is not exactly placed within a forest, there are some great spots to soak up some sun and breath in fresh air. Inside the Founder’s Plaza, there are plenty of open benches and tables exposed to the aromas of the Campus Coffee shack. Down the stairs, towards the library, there is a small platform with benches and shade. Behind the Academic Hall lies Palm Court, and if noise isn’t as big of an issue there are always the tables outside Starbucks or the Big Cat Bistro.

When all else fails, students should feel free to slip into an empty classroom, computer lab, tutoring centers or befriend one of the lonely benches sitting besides any building. Little Hint: CSUSM’s website provides lists of open-access computer labs, tutoring centers and an option to reserve a study room for you and your friends.