Summing Things Up
As the first day of finals week unfolds at Oberlin College, the Science Library and Science Center atrium are bustling with students, each diligently preparing for their upcoming exams. However, as the writer, about to graduate from the esteemed institution, reflects on this hectic period, it becomes apparent that there are indeed specific times during finals week when these study spaces are less frequented.
During late-night hours and early mornings, many students may choose to study elsewhere, such as their dorm rooms or homes, as college libraries often have closing hours or reduced services at night. Meal times and physical activity breaks also contribute to a decline in library usage, with students taking breaks for meals and short breaks like tea/snack breaks reducing the number of students in study areas.
The high stress of finals week requires effective study strategies, including taking regular breaks to avoid burnout. As a result, students often leave study areas to rest or relax during these periods. Studies emphasize that long continuous study sessions without breaks are ineffective, leading to dips in library occupancy during these rest periods.
The operational hours of university libraries, which may exclude late nights or early mornings, also play a role in creating "no study" times in these spaces. Outside these hours, students usually study elsewhere or rest.
Phoebe, a fellow graduating student, is making the transition to new choices after self-discovery. Meanwhile, Taylor Swift, who has come of age under immense scrutiny, delivered a commencement speech at New York University that was smart, witty, and inspiring. Despite her lack of college experience, Taylor Swift's song "Mine" refers to college, and the music video for her "Love Story" is partially set on a college campus.
The writer, who graduated from Oberlin four years ago at the age of 18, is still figuring out what they want to do after graduation, and they think they might want to be a writer. The Science Library, with its quiet atmosphere, big windows offering a fantastic view, and intuitive layout, has been a favourite study spot throughout their college years. However, on this particular day, the writer is writing on a small couch in the Science Center atrium with their computer on their lap due to the lack of tables.
As the writer reflects on their time at Oberlin, they recall their first year, which they enjoyed due to having a lot of free time and enjoying outdoor activities. Unfortunately, they have not seen the white squirrel, a beloved Oberlin mascot, since their second year at the college.
The Science Center atrium, much cooler than the writer's dorm room, offers a welcome respite during these final days of college. Taylor Swift's song "You're On Your Own, Kid" is significant in her speech, reminding graduates that they are embarking on a journey of self-discovery and growth. As the writer prepares to leave Oberlin, they too are reminded of the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.
In the late hours and early mornings, students might opt to study in their dorm rooms or homes due to library closing hours or reduced services, creating less frequented study spaces. During breaks or periods of rest, students may leave their study areas to relax, emphasizing the need for effective study techniques that include taking regular breaks to avoid burnout.
After their graduation from Oberlin, the writer might pursue a career in writing, seeking inspiration in the periphery of familiar study spots like the Science Library, now preferring the Science Center atrium as a comfortable respite before embarking on their journey of self-discovery and growth.
