By Briana Wheeler
Staff Writer
Dear Briana,
I’ve gotten tired of studying in the library. I spend hours everyday on the first floor, but it’s gotten to where I can’t focus. I rotate to a new spot, but I think I’m just too familiar with the space and gotten too comfortable. I haven’t really branched out much to other buildings, so I was hoping you’d have some suggestions.
Looking for a new home,
Studying Sam
Dear Sam,
Luckily for you, there is no shortage of spaces to study in on campus! Whenever I need a break from my typical study spots, I always manage to find a new one. Since all of the academic building remain open 24/7, you can set up camp almost anywhere; it really depends on what you’re looking for in a space.
Most of my classes are in Gailor, so I spend a lot of time there because the rooms are comfortable and there are a lot to choose from. Spencer has a common space that’s clean and open with a lot of natural light, so that’s a popular spot during the day. The Walsh-Ellett and Carnegie complex has all sorts of strange classrooms that can be fun to explore and study in. As a bonus, you have quick access to the best bathroom on campus in the basement.
If you want quiet, the third floor of the library has to stay silent, so you may want to try trekking up there, especially if you like the library but find yourself getting distracted. A lot of the residence halls also have spaces designed for studying, so you may want to check out your building. Each place will provide something a little different, so I suggest experimenting with some different places until you’ve found your new study home.
Happy hunting,
Briana
Dear Briana,
I want to have a better relationship with my professors, but I don’t really know how to do that. I work really hard in my classes, but I still can’t read them. How can you tell if they like you? I’m thinking of asking one of my current professors to be my advisor, but I have no idea how to approach them. Any suggestions?
Sincerely,
Nervous Nancy
Dear Nancy,
The amount of concern you show for your relationships indicate that you care about your presence in class, which is a good sign. So long as you come to class prepared, push yourself in your studies, respect your classmates’ opinions and demonstrate the desire to do your best, I wouldn’t worry about whether your professor likes you.
To strengthen that relationship, office hours is a great tool. Anytime you want to go over an assignment or a section of the reading you didn’t quite understand, email your professor and see if they’re available and would be willing to discuss it with you. It’s that simple.
As for asking a professor to be your advisor, I understand why that makes you nervous. I definitely was. I suggest you find a convenient time, take a deep breath, and just ask them. There are very few reasons why a professor would say no, so I say go for it.
If asking in person makes you too anxious, you can simply email them as well. It’s not supposed to be a super stressful process. Instead, focus on the excitement of declaring your major, which is a major (ha) step in your college career!
Keep working hard,
Briana.