by: Clara Mills & Luciana Brusca for The Dirt
Finding the perfect study spot is an endeavor that requires matching a student’s preferences with the characteristics of the location. As we approach exam time at the end of the school year, we’ve created a list to help learners of all styles and ages find a study spot that suits them best—including some that might typically be off the radar for non-UCD students.
- Wyatt Deck
Wyatt Deck is located in the Arboretum on the UC Davis campus, and is open around the clock. The outdoor style seating allows you to enjoy the fresh air and calm of nature, and provides a focused environment for learning. TIP: Check the forecast as this is an outdoor location! - Philz Coffee
Located on the corner of 2nd and E Street in downtown Davis, Philz is open from 6a—5:30p on weekdays and 6p on weekends. They offer an open space with different types of seating, including couches, creating an inviting space for everyone. Philz is also committed to sustainable and green business practices. They only partner with suppliers who use sustainable farming practices and help support those communities. In the store, they use utensils and tableware made from compostable materials. - UCD Student Community Center
The SCC is open Monday—Friday 8a—6p, and Saturday—Sunday 12p—6p. It is located in the center of the UC Davis campus, and available to students and community members. It provides open style study seating, along with reservable meeting rooms. - Mishkas
A popular work and conversational spot for people of all ages. Located on 2nd Street in downtown Davis, they’re open Monday—Saturday 6:30a—6p (they open on Sundays at 7a). Mishkas has a busier feel, with crowded tables that are always full of people. Some tables are for studying but others are reserved for conversations. Mishkas is locally owned and supports local artists by showcasing new, purchasable artwork every month. - Coffee House
The UC Davis Coffee House, aka CoHo, is a common place for students to study and find a quick treat. It is a lively and energetic environment, and provides a collaborative space to work. It has multiple locations, with the main ASUCD Coffee House being located near the Memorial Union. Hours vary by location. - The Graduate Center
One of UC Davis’ main buildings located in the center of campus. The center provides writing, meeting, conference and study rooms available to community members, and is adaptable to the needs of all students and Davis community members. Open Monday—Thursday, 8a—7p. - Shields Library
UCD’s main library is a 24-hour study room open continuously, excluding Fridays after 5p, and Saturdays. The library is split into different learning environments, with silent, quiet, and conversation zones.
- Mary L. Stephens Branch Library
Located on East 14th Street, the Stephens Branch Library has study spaces suited for all study styles. When you walk through the doors, you are met with rows and rows of books. To the right are shared study desks, personal study cubbies, and silent study rooms. The library is open on Monday from 12p—8p, Tuesday—Thursday from 9:30a—8p, Friday & Saturday from 9a—5:30p, and Sunday from 1p—5:30p. - Temple Coffee Roasters
Located on the corner of 3rd & G Street, the interior is composed of long tables that are good for two-person conversations or individual working. Tables for 2-4 people are located outside next to the sidewalk. In addition to coffee and specialty drinks, they sell fresh pastries. They are open daily from 6a—8p. - Cloud Forest Cafe
A small cafe style restaurant located on D Street and is locally owned. Cloud Forest has a “homey” feel. There are tables inside as well as an outside patio for small groups and individual seating. There is a fresh-made food menu that includes breakfast and lunch sandwiches and smoothies. Open Tuesday—Saturday from 8a—3p and Sunday from 8:30a—3p.
We hope this selection helps you to find the study spot that matches your preferences, and we wish you good luck in your upcoming exams!
