As a graduating senior, I’ve been around the block a time or two with this whole “studying” thing. While some students dread opening up their notebooks, I’ve come to appreciate it — all because I understand where you study can play a big part into how affective your study session is.

Photographer Shawn McGinnis followed me around and documented some of my favorite and most underrated study spots at Penn State.

The Library

Penn State is blessed with one of the largest libraries in the nation (thanks, Joe), and it certainly serves its purpose as a terrific place to hit the books. It’s quiet, and there are a number of different spots to get your work done.

The HUB

The hustle and bustle of the HUB might be distracting to some, but if you find the right spot — like the third floor — it’s hard to beat as far as studying goes. The fact that Chick-Fil-A and Starbucks are just steps away really makes the HUB one of the premier places to finish the paper due in your 1:25.

Canyon Pizza

Day or night, Canyon Pizza might be the most underrated spot to study this side of the Mississippi. I mean, have you ever tried it? Snacking on a fresh slice just out of the oven (don’t use the ranch) while reading about Ferdinand Magellan’s voyage around the world? Sign me up.

In The Middle Of An Intersection

I may have lost you here, but trust me, the middle of the road is a great place to study. Any intersection will do, but I personally like the corner of College and Fraser because I’m just steps away from Dunkin’ Donuts if I need a coffee. The only downside is aggravating the impending traffic, but you can’t please everybody if you want those A’s!

Outside Of Frats

Opinions on Greek life may vary, but here’s one thing we can all agree about: Studying outside of a frat house really gets the brain juices going. The ability to retain knowledge when the smell of Polo cologne and stale Natty Light are just off into the distance is one of life’s true marvels.

At The Gaff

This is more for the 21-and-over crowd, and really, this is just because I don’t want my homework to be the reason I’m late for Gaffeoke. You can never get to Gaffeoke too early.

With The Willard Preacher

Some people study with music playing in the background, while some like to listen to a podcast. I prefer to study while listening to the Preacher condemn partying and fornication. Every once in a while I’ll get distracted and find myself paying more attention to his sermon than my notes, but study breaks are also a vital part to the studying process.

Laying On The Lion Shrine

The Lion Shrine is one of the most iconic places at Penn State, but it’s an even a better study spot. Although you may think laying horizontally is uncomfortable, you can clearly see from the picture above that I’ve never been more comfortable in my life.

With Bernie Sanders Supporters

Felt so much Bern, felt so much more confident about my History 450 exam on Friday morning after this quick study session.