For some, home might be the best place to get cracking on those tutorial notes and readings. After all, familiar grounds paired with creature comforts make it the perfect place to hole up at for hours at a stretch.
However, others might find it an uphill task to focus on the lengthy readings while resisting the urge to catch up on Netflix or crawl back under the sheets for a not-so-short snooze. Whether you need to prep for the exams or catch up on project work—alone or with your best buds—finding a conducive space is not always easy.
With the help of your SMU seniors, we’ve sussed out the best spots on campus so you don’t have to wait around for a free table at Starbucks or some new hipster cafe. Who else would know better than the very people who’ve done many a mad dash in their time at SMU to claim the perfect spot for mugging up.
We present the definitive guide to the top SMU campus study spots!
SMU Libraries
It comes as no surprise that our libraries are top on the list. With state-of-the-art facilities, WIFI, electrical plugs and quiet individual carrels and meeting rooms, those striving for maximum productivity with minimal distractions will appreciate the tranquil space.
Covering an expansive space of 8,800 square metres with 1,800 seats, you don’t have to fret about vying for elbow space—or any space in general—at the Li Ka Shing Library. While this main library stays open till midnight on the weekdays and 9PM on the weekends—except public holidays—night owls who function better in the wee hours will be delighted with the 24/7 conducive learning space at the Learning Commons. Bonus: The library also has a Graduate Lounge on Level 5 that’s dedicated for graduate students.
Did we say “libraries”? Yeap! In 2017, SMU opened its second library—the Kwa Geok Choo Law Library—which spans 2,200 square metres with 500 seats. With its clean lines, modern design and large amounts of natural light, you’ll definitely feel more energised to keep going.
lyf@SMU
A collaboration between The Ascott Limited and SMU that was unveiled in February 2017, lyf@SMU is a trend-setting co-study, co-work, co-living space that also serves as a ‘living lab’ for applied research.Located within the SMU Labs, this space is designed for and managed by millennials, so you can be sure this has all the makings of a#hipsterhideout.
Those who prefer to study in a relaxed environment—where you won’t be judged for disturbance just because you dropped a pen—you will find plenty of conducive spaces in the sprawling 3,000 square metres living lab to get lost in your notes and readings.
Need a respite from the books? Head to The Park for a game of foosball or sweat it out on stationary bikes in the cycling corner while powering up your mobile phone. If you need a short shuteye before getting back into the groove, take a power nap on one of the many comfy bean bags or in the bunk studio.
The best part? SMU Labs is open 24/7!
School of Social Sciences and School of Economic Study Lounges
One of the most coveted spots on campus, the air-conditioned study lounges at the ground level and basement concourse of the School of Social Sciences and School of Economics building offer a relatively quiet, conducive study environment for students. With a total of 375 seats—added as part of a project to enhance campus facilities—do go early to snag a spot as these fill up fast!
Group Study Rooms
If you prefer exclusivity, these study rooms are your best bet. While these air-conditioned group study rooms are aplenty and scattered across the campus, you’ll need to plan ahead and book them in advance. The only caveat is that you’ll need one other friend to make a booking on OASIS—the online facility booking system. With rooms of various sizes, you can gather a few study mates to tackle the books together, for up to three hours per booking.
Benches, Benches Everywhere
While not the top choice for most, thanks to the lack of air-conditioning and occasional noise disturbances, the open benches on campus do have their plus points. Less restrictive than a library environment, feel free to snack on chips or perk up with a cuppa while you’re in the midst of studying. Need to consult a friend on a particularly complex topic? You won’t get shushed for it.
