As a former Wichita State student, I know that having a comfortable study spot can make all the difference when it comes to getting through college coursework. Some students need quiet. Some need a little background noise. Some need coffee nearby for emotional and academic support.

Wichita State has spots to fit whatever category you fall into. Here are a few favorites, plus a few more niche spots to check out:

Shocker Success Center

One of our newest buildings on campus, the Shocker Success Center is a central hub for academic support, student services and study space.

Students can access tutoring, writing help, math and science labs, tech support and OneStop Student Services all in one building. It’s a great place to get work done and know that help is nearby if you're struggling with an assignment.

 

Ablah Library

WSU’s classic study spot. It has quiet areas, large whiteboards, group study rooms and a 24-hour study space for late-night work or finals week procrastination. I obviously wouldn’t know anything about that last one.

The private study rooms on the second level are some of the most peaceful spaces to focus on campus. They are a good option if you want fewer distractions and a little more privacy while you work!

Bonus Spot: The Outdoor Alcove by Ablah Library

This was my personal favorite spot. On the south end of Ablah Library, there’s an outdoor alcove down the steps that not everyone ventures into, which is part of why I loved it. It feels a little tucked away without being totally hidden from campus.

In the spring and early fall, the trees hang over the area and give it a whimsical feeling. There’s enough separation from the busier parts of campus to make it feel like you found a small secret.

Rhatigan Student Center (RSC)

The RSC is a lively, convenient place to study with easy access to food, coffee and student services. It’s great for when you want to study without feeling too far away from campus life.

It’s also a good between-classes spot when you need to sit down, review notes or grab something to eat before heading to your next class.

 

Outdoor Study Spots

When the weather is nice, studying outside can make a long day on campus feel a little better. Students can find shaded areas near the RSC, the hammock lounge near Ablah Library or near one of the outdoor art collection pieces spread throughout campus.

My personal favorite outdoor area is around Millie the Millipede. She is on the fine arts side of campus, close to the Ulrich Art Museum, where there are tables and chairs.

Another outdoor spot worth checking out is the seating overlooking the pond behind the NetApp building located on campus. It’s a peaceful place to study, read or if you have a longer break between classes. There are also pickleball courts and a basketball hoop nearby, which makes the area a good option if you want to move around for a bit before getting back to work.

Nearby Coffee Shops

Wichita State has two Starbucks locations on campus: one at Braeburn Square and one inside the RSC. Both are great options for students who study best with caffeine or a snack.

Credo Coffee Shop, located inside the St. Paul Catholic Student Center on campus, serves affordable roasts and offers study spaces during the school year.

Fairmount Coffee Company, just across 17th Street, is another student favorite with a cozy, off-campus feel while still being within walking distance to class. I love their WuBerry smoothie!

Find Your Own Favorite Spot

The best study spot is different for everyone. When I was a student, part of the fun was figuring out which places actually worked for me.

I recommend trying a few different spaces and see what fits your routine.

If you want, get an in-person look at these spots and more by scheduling an official visit to Wichita State!