Best CS Study Spots @ UIUC
Written by: Elaina Xiao
With a campus as vast as UIUC’s, it can be both a blessing and and curse when it comes to study spots. After trial and error, you can find the best place for your own study needs, but that would take a little too long to be productive. But fear not! Here is a comprehensive list of spots ranging from popular places and quiet areas to collaborative spaces and more!
While these are targeted mainly for CS students, all majors can use this information to find the perfect study place!
Close to Bardeen Quad
Siebel Center for CS
The “homeland” of computer science, in my opinion, is definitely underrated. A relatively chill and quiet atmosphere is perfect for lounging by the large windows, spreading out your pages of homework, and stressing over MPs with your friends. It usually isn’t too busy so you can most likely find a place to work and feel motivated by the other CS students around you!
If you’re looking for a place with other people interested in WCS, come to open office hours! Located at Siebel CS 0211, there are couches, chairs, free snacks, and so many fun people to chat with and grind on homework. You can also learn more about WCS if you’re interested in joining and potentially getting free merchandise (see this article to learn about the point system to get merch!).
Sidney Lu Mechanical Engineering
If you are motivated by a sweet treat and enjoy a bit of background noise, Sidney Lu Mechanical Engineering Building might be the place for you. Located near Loomis Laboratory, this brightly lit building creates a great ambiance for working. The main con for this study space is there isn’t much seating, but if you get a table you can knock out a lot of assignments while sipping on some Starbucks.
Grainger Library
If you ever need any help on an assignment, the CARE Center is a useful resource. Located on the 4th floor of Grainger Library, there are tutors who can help you with a variety of subjects. You can also talk to fellow students as the 4th floor isn’t a silent floor, as well as the 1st floor.
Sometimes, you might need absolute silence to focus on your work. Whether you’re studying for a midterm or just prefer silence, Grainger is a great place to do work. Both the second and third floors are silent floors. The second floor has large tables and grand windows while the third floor is darker with personal desks. Whether you need a lot of space or want to block out any distractions, you’ll find what you need. The main issue with Grainger is it can be absolutely packed, especially in the afternoons. However, if you don’t mind sharing a table or stalking around for a seat, you’ll most likely enjoy studying here!
Close to Main Quad
University Library
Also known as the Main Library, the University Library has plenty of seating and gorgeous architecture. There are multiple floors and rooms to do work in. When you first walk in, the Orange Room has plenty of tables and study pods. You can eat and talk on this floor as well.
A personal favorite spot of mine at the University Library is the second floor. Especially if you are looking for a silent place to do work, I’ve loved sitting down here. The windows are ginormous, the architecture is stunning, and you could hear a pin drop in this room.
Union Basement
While the Union Courtyard is always bustling, the basement, in my opinion, is an underrated spot on campus. With many delicious restaurants around and lots of tables (with outlets), I like having a fun drink or snack while chatting with friends. The only con is a lack of windows, but a new ambiance can occasionally help with productivity!
Whether you prefer quiet, loud, busy, or underground study spots, there is definitely a place for you on campus outside of your dorm. Take some time to try these locations and find as much enjoyment as possible as the semester winds up!
