A student balancing a certain grade point average (GPA) on top of extracurricular activities, projects, homework and the stresses of life cannot simply cram it all in one night. There’s an exception to every rule, but there comes a point where it’s all too much, and most will rely on finishing assignments the next morning in the library or IB Commons. However, this cannot be accomplished with these study areas becoming hangouts for students in the morning. This disturbance leaves one to ponder on the thought of having an actual study space for students to finish their tasks at hand.

Think about it – colleges have spaces dedicated for the sole purpose of studying, and, with the proper rules and guidelines to follow, these study spaces aren’t able to become hangouts like the library and IB Commons sometimes seems to be. Rules, such as certain hours being dedicated to quiet studying or having open seating at all times, enforce a studious ambiance to the rooms, unlike the study spaces here.  

Don’t confuse study rooms with study spaces since it’s not the same idea; a study room is more of what IB Commons and the library replicate, while study spaces are where students go to actually do what the name entitles. While it’s difficult to attempt to focus on your work with friends around, it’s more difficult for those who are trying to do their work with the constant background noise of chatter disrupting their thoughts.

IB Commons and the library, however, are meant to be study areas; with all of the chatting in these areas, they become insufficient to their purpose. You will have to blast your music in order to drown out the noise at their peak times: right before first period and during lunch. In the past, librarians would tell students to be quiet, but it feels as if even the librarian has become accustomed to the noise.

Some students go to school earlier, seeking peace and quiet to complete their work until others barge into these spaces. This shouldn’t happen trying to just find the fitting environment to finish up your work. Therefore, having a designated study area that’s strictly for studying is imperative.