Career Talk Blog | 5 Great Places to Study in Your “New” Hometown

by Rebecca Alwine

Back in high school, when you needed to study, it was monumentally easier to go into your room, shut your door and have a few hours of piece. These days? That’s nearly impossible. Military spouses have so much going on, that they barely have enough hours to sleep, let alone study. That’s why finding the perfect study place is so important.

And, just like most other things in this roller coaster of military life, as soon as you find the perfect place, it’s time to move. Just like you need to find a new hair dresser, babysitter and favorite grocery store. So, as you are settling in, try studying in some of these places, to find your favorite study spot at your current duty station.

Library

Studying in libraries is pretty traditional, but there’s a reason for that! They’re quiet and have all the resources you need. They have tables, couches and individual study rooms. You can use the campus library, the library on your installation, or one of the many libraries in your new town. A research library is much more lax on talking and collaboration, so this may be a good place to do some group work.
My favorite military research library is the Military Intelligence Library on Fort Huachuca, Ariz.

Bookstore

Do you love the smell of books? A bookstore is a magical place and can be the perfect study spot. Whether it’s a large, chain store like Barnes & Noble or a local store, the atmosphere just can’t be beat. Consider trying out a few of them, if your town has more than one, and find your favorite location. Just don’t spend too much time shopping or reading when you should be studying.
If you find yourself strapped for studying time and accompanied by older children or your spouse, they can easily spend an hour or two playing, shopping, or reading in a book store.

Coffee Shop

Coffee shops are a favorite study place because they have coffee! But they can be a bit distracting, particularly if they are busy. But a good set of headphones and a seat facing away from the action helps make things a little calmer. One great thing about moving is it gives you an excuse try all the local coffee shops to find “the one.”
Get to know the baristas and you’ll learn all about your new hometown happenings.

Park

When the weather is nice, no one wants to be inside studying. A park can be a fun change of pace for studying. Keeping away from playgrounds is advised because you may find yourself distracted with the number of children playing. But the fresh air and new view could be just enough to motivate you to finish so you can enjoy the nice weather.
Take some small breaks to explore your park, or move your study spot periodically to get the best view.

Community Center

Apartment complexes and neighborhoods often have a community center or club house. Even those on post! They are generally quite during the day, as most people use them to access a pool, gym, or to host events in the evenings. With comfy couches, Wi-Fi, and sometimes free coffee, they can be a great place to study. If you’re studying while you move, you can utilize the hotel’s business office or lobby as well.
If you ever want to host a study group, this would be a great place!

Don’t let moving derail your educational goals this year. Find your new study spot and get moving!