A beautiful sunset outside the Museum of Natural History.

Hello everyone!

Today I am going to be talking about my favorite study spots here at Michigan, and a few tips for what to do when you’re there! 

Location 1: Hatcher Stacks

In the Hatcher Graduate library, there are tables scattered throughout the stacks! These areas are great for when you need a quiet place to study, without many distractions. There are only a few tables in each area, making it a great place for the shy student. 

Location 2: The Museum of Natural History/Biological Sciences Building 

Looking for a great view of dinosaur bones to study by? Then this is the place for you. Away from the museum exhibits, there are tables next to Darwin’s cafe that are a wonderful place to study and get a snack!

Location 3: The CCCB

The Central Campus Classroom Building, or CCCB, has a plethora of study spaces. My personal favorite is the third floor. There is a great view of the east side of campus on either end, as well as booths, individual chair desks, and a fun blocky couch! The other four floors offer different study spaces as well, with varying levels of noise. 

Location 4: The Mosher Lounge or Morgue

On the Mosher side of MoJo, there is a lounge known as the Morgue. This is a silent study space for MoJo residents. It is great for studying without having to leave the residence hall, or late at night.

Location 5: The Law Library

This wouldn’t be a proper list if I didn’t include the Law Library! Half of the beautiful space is open to non-law students, and I couldn’t recommend it enough! The beauty of the space makes me feel far more productive, but this is a very popular spot. Like most others on this list, don’t be discouraged if you can’t find a place to sit!

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Tip 1: Don’t wait to start studying. 

I am very guilty of this myself, but to do your best, you should start studying at least a week before any exams. This may look like doing 20 minutes of a practice exam, re-reading notes from the past week, or watching YouTube videos on the topics you need more clarification on. 

Tip 2: Take advantage of YouTube videos!

YouTube videos are a great way to learn and gain a better understanding of a topic that you may be fuzzy on. Using them as a supplemental resource may work better for those who learn better by listening than reading. 

Tip 3: Go to office hours.

Office hours are there for a reason, so take advantage of them! Whether it be with your professor, GSI, or UTA, office hours are a great way to get questions answered and deepen your understanding of a concept. Do not hesitate to go early! If you wait until the last minute, there will be less opportunity for you to speak to the instructor one on one. 

I hope these tips will help you to be successful while here at Michigan! Just remember that no matter what, you got this.

Brianna