5 spots on campus to take advantage of this semester

Whether you’ve got pages of brain functions to memorize or millions of words to type, this study area is an excellent place to get stuff done. Photo by Riggs Vergara.

By Isabelle Bennett, Features Editor

Nearly 10,000 full-time students attend MRU during a given academic year. And every-freaking-one of them is going to be flocking to the same three spots when classes begin: the bookstore, the campus card line and transportation services. A lot of changes have occurred throughout the last few years, and the relocation and combination of these destinations has become commonplace. 

As a result, every year I do the same three things: wish I’d ordered my books online, regret I’d neglected to come in early for my campus card and laugh at those around me while I stand in line, uncomfortably ashamed at the fact I’m just another cat in the herd. But this year, I’ve got five spots that I’m excited to find some solitude in and gracious enough to share with our readers because they’re just that good. 

The climbing wall

This summer I gave climbing my first fair try, meaning I didn’t immediately label the wall as faulty just because my noodle arms couldn’t get me up it. I ended up going back dozens of times and was guaranteed a good workout as long as I genuinely tried — as a cardio addict, that means a lot. I’ve also found that climbing tends to attract a really chill, down-to-earth type of people who genuinely want you to succeed, so it’s a safe space for beginners to try something new. For years I’ve walked by the climbing wall in Mount Royal’s Recreation Centre, but I’m excited to give it a go this fall. As an added bonus, admission is free for full-time students!

The T-Wing Study Hall 

If you want to achieve highly academically (or — at the very least — pass your classes) the first place you should scope out is a go-to study spot. Every department seems to have their own little hub, but there are a few gems out there for those willing to go beyond the halls of their designated wing. My favourite place to study is the silent room in the T-wing with the stained glass windows. It has another name too, but I just like calling it the silent room in the T-wing with the stained glass windows and that’s all. If you want to get stuff done, it’s the place to be. If you want to chat, don’t you dare corrupt my study haven.

The library treadmills

Did you know that movement helps increase retention? It’s true – a little increase in blood flow promotes mental acuity and serves as an excellent aid in memorization. It can also produce endorphins which help reduce stress and improve mood – basically a win, win, win situation. 

The second-floor bathroom by Jugo Juice is debatably the best place to do business on the Mount Royal University campus. Photo by Riggs Vergara.

The 2nd-floor bathrooms by the track 

As my pals at Charmin like to say, “We all go, why not enjoy the go?” If you’re in the midst of a study marathon, your trips to the lieu might be the most promising opportunities to relax throughout your day. Unfortunately, most of the bathrooms that line main street are small, three-or-four-stall numbers that are fortunately kept quite clean but are unfortunately often closed for cleaning. They can also be quite busy, especially during breaks, due to their location in a high-traffic area. But if you’ve got a few minutes to devote to this important business, I’d recommend the bathrooms on the second floor near the Jugo Juice and the running track. From my experience, they’re spacious, spotless, and typically empty. 

The Meditation Room (W201)

MRU is home to a lot of cool and inclusive rooms on campus, and regardless of the communities you choose to be a part of, there’s something for everyone. After reading over and over again about how insanely amazing meditation is, I’ve started practicing it for myself and have quickly discovered that a quiet, peaceful space makes all the difference — I’m excited to try out this one! Overwhelmed with schoolwork? Meditate. Stressed about a test? Meditate. Can’t decide between The Table’s chicken burger or Mucho Burrito for lunch? Neither can I. Perhaps it’s time for some soul searching questions — this is the perfect place. 

Save someone’s semester by telling your friends (but not too many of your friends) about these go-to places on campus, too.