My go-to campus study spots
As a final year student, I have had lots of time (and many deadlines) to cultivate my favourite study spots on campus. Interestingly, I have found that studying in my bedroom may not be so effective. Who knew working where you sleep makes you…want to sleep!
Luckily, I study on the UK’s most beautiful campus, so I don’t need to venture far to find a good study spot.
The Main Library
Naturally, the Keele University library is my go-to. Firstly, it’s open 24/7 during term-time, which is ideal whether you’re an early riser or a night owl. Additionally, there are three floors with different areas and different ambiences, so you can pick what suits your mood - general collaboration areas for when you’re feeling more relaxed or when studying in a group, and dedicated silent study areas for when you need focus and seriously lock-in. The food area deserves an honourable mention, two vending machines, microwaves, and access to hot water are practical pieces that have made quick breaks and long stays feel more comfortable and supported.
The library offers a variety of books available to borrow, many of which are accessible digitally too. With over 100 computers equipped with course-specific software, it has helped me through first-year assignments and will see me through my dissertation submission too.
Classrooms
One of my unexpected discoveries has been booking classrooms through TopDesk. For a presentation that my friend and I were practising, we quickly realised the library was not the right setting to work so interactively.
Next thing you know, we’re presenting our neuropharmacology presentation, role-playing an audience, and ordering burgers as a treat. It’s a great option when you want space to speak, present, or even just work with a projector playing lo-fi music in the background.
Chapter’s Café
Envision this: you want to study, read, or revise a group project with coffee at hand, maybe a sweet treat, or a sandwich to fuel you, but in a space that doesn’t feel intensely academic. Four words: “Let’s go to Chapter’s”.
I find it an easy spot to slip into a flow-state of productivity, while still having freedom to break and let the background radio in. Plus, opening at 8am on weekdays makes my early starts on campus feel more creative, caffeinated, and productive.
Central Science Laboratories (CSL)
As a neuroscience and psychology student, I’ve had many classes in the CSL buildings. Basing my study spot where I have frequent classes makes the most of my free time between lectures, revising and finishing assignments. The seats are comfortable, plenty of natural light seeps in (which I find helps me focus), and it’s generally a quiet, productive corner of campus.
Keele-in-Town
Keele in Town deserves a special mention. Although it’s off campus in the heart of Newcastle-under-Lyme, it’s worth the short trip when you want a change of scenery. Piccoloco downstairs offers superb drinks (the matcha wins me over) and cakes, which pair well with the dedicated workspaces upstairs (note the 10% discount your Keele card gives you!).
I'd encourage you to explore these study spots for yourself. Each one supports a different study style and switching up your surroundings once in a while can make all the difference to your productivity and campus experience.
