Unconventional study spots to make the grade

Sometimes it can be difficult to finish homework inside the library at California State University, Stanislaus. The regular closing time on weekdays is 9 p.m., while on Fridays and Saturdays it closes at 5 p.m. On Sundays, the library closes at 7 p.m. However, there are other options during after-hours.

One popular option is Main Dining Hall on campus. Although the official closing time for Main Dining on school nights is 10 p.m., from personal experience there are times when students stay there at least an hour longer. Bruce Baker (Anthropology, junior) agrees with choosing Main Dining because "it's spacious and there is hardly anyone in there." There are more than enough tables and electrical outlets to accommodate students at night.

Another option requires a short walk across the street to the All Saints Catholic Church. Studying here may sound unusual, but there is a student lounge filled with wireless internet access and a handful of electrical outlets.

"Since I live in the dorms, it is close by. Very convenient. Also, makes me feel safe, and it is very quiet," Igdalia Covarrubias (English, freshman) said.

Just be aware that the internet requires a password and church activities take priority over anyone studying inside the lounge. Sometimes the doors are locked early. It might help to know a Catholic Students' Association member for access. 

For those with a car, Panera Bread welcomes students with free internet too and classy elevator style music. Mae Williamson (TESOL, graduate) enjoys the "quiet environment, warm fireplace, free Wi-Fi, and yummy foods to snack on." The dimly lighted restaurant, which offers mainly soup and sandwiches, is well-equipped to handle students looking to study off-campus. On Fridays and Saturdays, they remain open until 9 p.m. Students are welcome to stay 30 minutes past closing time. 

Around midnight, the options start to dwindle. However, Denny's is open 24 hours. Most Denny's do not offer wireless internet, but there could be a separate store or restaurant nearby with internet access. 

"[Denny's] isn't loud like Warrior Grill or disturbingly silent like the library," Christine Garner (English, senior) said. "I can have group meetings too and it has a comfy atmosphere."

The common theme is a quiet atmosphere. Nevertheless, there are times when students might not have money to study at a restaurant (common courtesy involves buying at least a drink). In addition, some students may not feel comfortable at a church. As for Main Dining, since it's mainly a guess when security kicks students out, some might not want that uncertainty. In those cases, there still exists one last option after the library closes. Students can go home.

For more information about these places to study, including locations, visit http://allsaintscsus.org, http://www.panerabread.com, or http://www.dennys.com.