Best Places to Study On Campus for Neurodivergent Students
Written by Annastatia Brooks
Thumbnail & Banner Photo by Hiki App on Unsplash
Neurodivergence refers to the condition where an individual's brain works differently than a typical person's would. This includes (but is not limited to) autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sensory processing disorders, and social anxiety disorders. These disorders usually result in sensory issues, such as sensitivities to lights, sounds, and smells, leading to trouble focusing on tasks. Therefore, being neurodivergent can make studying all the more challenging. This article will discuss locations and settings around the Saint Mary’s University (SMU) campus that could help neurodiverse students minimize stimuli while also focusing on their individual needs.
Rather than simply writing about the pros and cons of different locations around SMU, I will mention essential study habits and tips for neurodivergent students and include locations I would recommend when implementing this advice!
Quiet
Being neurodivergent already presents many challenges, so attempting to study effectively while at university could be extra difficult. The number one thing I would recommend is to find a quiet place to work; the sensitivity to sound that comes with neurodivergence can be quite distracting when trying to focus. There are several locations on campus that ensure a quiet, comfortable atmosphere.
Library Quiet Floors
Floors two and three of the Patrick Power Library are quiet floors at all times, with absolutely no tolerance for noise. Each table is divided into cubbies or pods, allowing for a secluded area to work. There is even a number you can text to alert staff if students are being disruptive and making noise on the quiet floors– simply text 902-816-0748 and someone will deal with the issue as soon as possible.
Library Study Rooms
A personal favorite of mine, these study rooms are surprisingly quiet, and can even be booked in advance to ensure you will get a space. The rooms come with a table and chairs, so you can have friends over to study together in peace. Be aware, though; during midterms and final season, they fill up extremely quickly, so be sure to book your space well in advance!
Top Floor of Student Center
This secluded area on the fifth floor of the O'Donnell Hennessey Student Centre is a public space so it is not completely silent, but it is fairly quiet and has a lovely atmosphere with large, bright windows.
Your Dorm
Your dorm can also be a fantastic quiet study space! Especially if you are living on a 24h quiet floor, dorm rooms can be very quiet. If you are in a double room and need some quiet time all to yourself, I would recommend investing in some noise-canceling headphones. These are not only perfect for getting into the study zone, but they are great for walking to class through the busy halls, riding on the bus during rush hour, or shopping for school supplies in public spaces. These are my favorite, and they are perfect for avoiding getting overstimulated.
Keep in Mind the Time of Day
Public study areas can get insanely busy, especially if students are studying for exams. When planning your study schedule, aim to study in a public study zone either early in the morning or late at night. The Atrium building is open 24/7, so heading there as early as you can should provide you with a calm and quiet environment. Another favorite tip of mine is to get to the library as soon as it opens or to head over an hour before it closes. This is also a great plan because neurodivergent folks often thrive during the evening hours!
Body Doubling
If you struggle with focus, body doubling might be a strategy you should try out this semester. Here are some great locations on campus where you can study in a public space surrounded by others in order to encourage you to get to work. Of course, if noise is something you struggle with, don’t forget your noise-canceling headphones!
Burke
The Burke building has two lovely study areas: the bottom floor, including desks and chairs, and the top “loft” area, where there is comfortable seating. These spaces can get pretty busy as they are also common areas where students wait for classes to begin, so keep that in mind if you are hoping for something quieter.
The Atrium
A classic SMU study location is the Atrium. Comfortable seating and access to desktop computers make this space a student hub almost always filled with people looking to study hard. The gorgeous skylights and plant wall add a distinct charm to the Atrium, and it is also a fantastic place to host meetings for group projects.
McNally Arts Commons
On the second floor of McNally Main, you can find the Arts Commons. This communal area allows for a group of students to sit together to work, there are desktop computers available, and the offices in the commons are sometimes where tutors hang out to help with your courses.
Dr. Hari Das Commons
This is a bright and warm spot on the second floor of Loyola Academic. It boasts tables and chairs, a lounge area, and a long table surrounded by windows, perfect for collaborating with other students. Even if you head to the Dr. Hari Das Commons to study alone, there are sure to be other students hanging out to body double with!
Sobey Inspiration Hub
This fantastic space opened in October of 2023, and includes areas such as the Inspiration Studios and the Jack and Yvonne Keith Student Commons. Surround yourself with creative, hard-working people, and focus on the work before you.
Photo by Jeff Cooke on Cooked Photography
Secluded and Without Distractions
As a neurodivergent person, you may prefer seclusion when studying, or you may find that you focus better without the presence of other people. Sound sensitivity can be especially challenging in large study areas, and socializing may lead to added stress. If you relate to these experiences, a secluded study space may be a better fit for you.
Patrick Power Library
Of course, the library's quiet floors are great for seclusion and are very private. If you’re looking for something more secluded, however, there are individual study capsules with one chair and a side table all around the library that provide a perfect space to study by yourself.
Mini Study Spots
Experienced students will have found small study areas all across campus with one or two chairs. These are fantastic areas outside of your dorm room that are comfortable and secluded. Take a walk around campus to spot them; some are in McNally North and McNally South, some are in the upper floors of the Atrium, some are scattered throughout the Sobey Inspiration Hub, and some are tucked in little corners of Loyola Academic. Keep an eye out for these secluded little spaces!
While Snacking
Snacking while studying can actually increase your focus and productivity! There are some fantastic areas on campus that allow you to pick up snacks, drinks, or a meal, and sit in a comfortable area to study.
Tim Hortons
Whether munching down on a donut while cramming for a test or chilling with an ICECAP while doing some readings, the Colonnade Tim Hortons has a variety of delightful snacks and meals to keep you fueled throughout the busy school days. Though Tim Hortons does not have a sit-down cafe area, the Anne J. & Albert T. Isaacs Commons is just to the side of the kiosk and has plenty of seating.
The Sandwich Shack
Grab a seat at the Sandwich Shack seating area and order a custom-made sandwich, wrap, salad, or bowl for a larger meal while studying. For a lighter snack, they also offer fruit, chocolate bars, and baked goods.
Starbucks
The Starbucks on campus is a sweet little area, perfect for a rainy day as the drops fall down upon the pyramid skylight above the cafe. Grab a coffee, then snuggle up on a comfy cushioned chair to do some readings or prep for your next exam. Starbucks also offers sandwiches, desserts, and a variety of specialty drinks. For those interested in the Starbucks boycott, find more information here to determine if this is a company you feel comfortable supporting.
Additional Support
Break area in the Patrick Power Library
In the center of the first floor of the Patrick Power Library, there is a table set up to be used during your study breaks. Whether it be puzzles, Lego, coloring sheets, or crafts, this station allows you to take a break from the difficult day of studying to be present and creative.
The Writing Center
At the Writing Center, you can work with a writing tutor to refine your writing if essays and papers are something you struggle with. Click here to schedule an appointment.
The Fred Smithers Center
The Fred Smithers Center offers support and accommodations for students' accessibility needs. To get test and exam accommodations, fill out this form and submit it to the center, or check out their many other services here.
I hope that these tips and location suggestions can help you focus on your studies this semester! Don’t forget to take breaks, recharge, and be gentle with yourself during this busy time!