A typically beautiful evening glow over the Green

Lauren Groulx

Class of 2027

Lauren looking radiant standing in a field

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Studying Outside at Dartmouth: Beyond the Green

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As midterm season comes to a close here at Dartmouth and the height of fall colors is upon us, I've been relishing in the last rays of sunshine on campus. I'm known among my friends as someone likely to spend hours in the Stacks (a totally silent space in Berry Library used to store books), but I also enjoy studying outside! Being a student at Dartmouth requires balance–there are countless opportunities, and only 24 hours in a day. I think studying outside is a great way to combine my desire to be outdoors with my need to study! Here's a list of a few of my favorite outdoor study spots on campus.

No. 1
The Green

The Green is the go-to outdoor space on campus for a reason. It’s centrally located, large, and frequently populated by adorable dogs! The Green is a perfect spot to study, catch up with friends, or join in a game of Spikeball or Frisbee. Recently, I’ve loved getting Green2Go (takeout from the dining hall) and heading with a picnic blanket to the Green! Additionally, there are plenty of benches to sit on if I forget a blanket. One of the best things about the Green is its location at the heart of campus. It’s near the dining hall, Collis (our student center), and the library! Also, I’m often able to see my friends walking by while I’m studying on the Green, which provides a perfect study break. The Green isn’t the most tranquil outdoor space on campus, but it is a great place to catch up on readings or study with friends while enjoying the fresh air.
No. 2
Kemeny Courtyard

This term, I’m taking Math 3 in Kemeny Hall. A couple of weeks ago, I realized that there’s an amazing study space located a few short steps away from my classroom! I’ve been studying and working on my problem sets right outside of Kemeny in this courtyard before every class since my realization. Full of tables and fellow math students, this courtyard is conveniently located near Novack Café (in Berry Library). An added bonus of Kemeny Courtyard is the beautiful fall foliage currently surrounding the space. And just like the Green, I get to see my friends walking by and greet them! This courtyard is another great space to eat, study, and meet with friends on campus.
No. 3
Unnamed Courtyard

When I’m in the mood to study a little closer to my dorm, I’ve been frequenting this unnamed spot near Judge and French Halls. Although this space lacks a formal name, its amenities are far from deficient. This courtyard of sorts contains multiple bright yellow Adirondack chairs, a few lovely benches, and both shaded and sunny places for a blanket! This space is located centrally between my dorm and The Fern, a café in The Irving Institute for Energy & Society that serves delicious (and sustainable) snacks. My favorite thing about this space is its peacefulness because it's tucked away in an area of campus most students have no need to visit.