[Featured Image: Kwa Geok Choo Law Library]
By Amelia Chew, Undergraduate, SMU School of Computing and Information Systems
Whether you’re cramming for exams or grinding out a group project, finding the perfect study space can feel like a real mission.
Luckily, we’ve got the inside scoop from SMU seniors on the best places to hit the books. Say goodbye to wandering around looking for a seat at a pricey café—our backup spots have got you covered!
Get ready to discover where productivity meets comfort on the SMU campus. When it comes to scouting the best study spots, sharing is definitely caring!
1. SMU Libraries – Li Ka Shing Library and Kwa Geok Choo Law Library
SMU’s libraries are the epitome of conducive study spots for a reason. They’ve got all the essentials—Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, and project rooms—designed to keep you productive with minimal distractions.
Li Ka Shing Library
Offering 1,800 seats, the Li Ka Shing Library is open until midnight on weekdays and 9pm on weekends (excluding public holidays), perfect for both early birds and night owls.
For those burning the midnight oil, the 24/7 Learning Commons is a quiet haven. Graduate students also get exclusive access to the Graduate Lounge on Level 5, ideal for some serious mugging.
Kwa Geok Choo Law Library
Opened in 2017, the Kwa Geok Choo Law Library spans 2,700 square metres with more than 500 seats. It has a modern design that allows loads of natural light to illuminate the space, creating an inspiring atmosphere for those intense study sessions.
2. Group Study Rooms, Project Rooms, and Meeting Pods
For those preferring a more private and exclusive study environment, check out SMU’s Group Study Rooms, Project Rooms, and Meeting Pods. These air-conditioned spaces are conveniently located across the campus, catering to both group and solo study sessions.
Group Study Rooms (GSRs)
GSRs are ideal for students needing a quiet, secluded space. They come in various sizes, letting you and your study buddies tackle assignments together. They’re super popular though, especially near project deadlines and finals, so book early to snag a spot!
Project Rooms (PRs)
Located in both SMU libraries, PRs come with TVs for plugging in your laptops. This is ideal for collaborative work that requires sharing and viewing content on a bigger screen.
Meeting Pods
Meeting Pods are perfect for solo study sessions. They offer a focused, distraction-free environment, suitable for intense cramming marathons.
To use any of these rooms, don’t forget to book these rooms through the OASIS online facility booking system (FBS)!
3. School of Social Sciences and College of Integrative Studies Study Areas
The study areas in the School of Social Sciences and College of Integrative Studies (SOSS/CIS) building offer a bright and inviting atmosphere.
Here, you’ll find individual study pods and communal tables bathed in natural light, creating an environment that’s sure to boost your productivity. Plus, the interior greenery adds a refreshing and welcoming touch for both solo study sessions and group discussions.
The study lounge on Level 1 offers cosy seats for relaxed studying and casual group discussions. This spot is perfect for reviewing notes and working on assignments between classes.
4. Project Way, School of Computing and Information Systems 1
SCIS Project Way stands out as a premium study spot on campus. Located on Level 3 of the School of Computing and Information Systems 1 (SCIS1) building, this common space is a favourite among SCIS students. Here, you’ll find students debugging codes, prepping for exams, and celebrating achievements. With top-notch facilities, including new desktop computers as of 2024, it’s a perfect spot for both productive and unwinding sessions.
The area is also equipped with comfortable seating and ample power outlets to keep your devices charged, ensuring you have everything you need for those marathon study sessions.
5. ONALU Bagel Haús
Love a freshly baked bagel? Onalu Bagel Haus, an aesthetic eatery nestled between the School of Accountancy (SOA) and SMU Connexion, boasts a cosy ambiance with reasonable prices for their bagels. Not only can you have a productive study session, but you also get to satisfy your bagel cravings!
If bagels aren’t your thing, no worries! Check out the inviting outdoor area between SOA and SMU Connexion featuring plenty of benches where you can relax or work amidst the fresh air and natural light. It’s an ideal setting for getting things done while enjoying a refreshing break outdoors.
With these top-notch study spots at your disposal, your study haven at SMU is always just around the corner. Happy studying!
