Do you have FOMO when it’s sunny outside? Want to enjoy the beautiful weather but have seven readings due tomorrow? Try out one of these spots!

Being from New England, I know how fleeting good fall weather is—and how quickly it turns into a brutal winter. Because of this, I have been on a mission to spend the most time outside as possible before the outdoors become inhospitable. These five outdoor spaces are tried and true to help you study while enjoying the good weather!

  1. Ledge along Barnard Hall 

The stairs of Barnard Hall can get busy, but the ledge around it is the perfect place to really focus. The bushes provide both shade and a space to hide from any people walking by. As far as comfort goes, it is granite but considerably comfortable. 

  1. Law Bridge

Overlooking the city, this is the perfect place to feel like you’re an aesthetic New York City college student, while still being removed enough to focus. With its choices of big picnic tables, smaller tables, or just benches, you have plenty of space. Just try not to look at the big (ugly) statue looming over you. 

  1. Top steps and side ledge of Low

The steps of Low are quintessentially Columbia, but most people never make it all the way up to the top steps. The very top provides space to rest your back and is very rarely crowded! This is an especially great spot at night, when you can look up and see Butler in all its glory in front of you. The side ledge, while less comfortable, is even cooler – as long as you don’t have a fear of heights! 

  1. Tables in front of Milbank Hall

If you really need to lock in, head over to Milbank Hall on the Barnard campus. Secluded from pretty much everywhere, you almost feel transported back to the 1800s, which is the perfect vibe for getting some hardcore work done. Just be aware of the construction, although that is hard to escape anywhere on campus. 

  1. Tables in front of Hamilton Hall 

Many people frequent the tables right outside of John Jay, but few go all the way to the tables right outside of Hamilton. As long as you’re not there during meal times, there’s sure to be at least one empty seat, and the big tables provide the perfect space for letting loose while you study. 

These spots won’t be usable for long, so take advantage while you can! You’ll not only feel like the coolest person on campus, but everyone will be wondering, “Who is the cool, mysterious, underground person who looks so studious?”

Header via Flickr