From being alone in Zimmerman Library to study groups at Frontier Restaurant, students say they know exactly what type of atmosphere best suits their learning style.
"I go home to my parents house," J.R. Salazar said. "I can't hang out in the dorms, because there's always something more interesting going on. If I really need to concentrate, I have to leave."
Salazar said his parents travel on a regular basis, and having a house to himself allows for quality study time. He said he turns down offers from his friends to study in places like Zimmerman Library and the SUB.
"They really like being on campus when they review for finals," he said. "I guess it relaxes them, but it causes me to lose focus."
Salazar said he prepares questions for himself on index cards, so he can work alone.
"I think my method works best for people like me, who are easily distracted," he said. "It's best to turn off the phone and study when you can be all by yourself."
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Other students find just the opposite to be true. To prepare for finals, Brian Johnson holds weekly group sessions at various restaurants in the University area. He said having people around as he studies keeps him on his toes.
"The noises and all of the chatter you hear in busy places like Frontier and Saggio's keeps me from getting bored as I go over my notes," he said.
Johnson said he and others meet to compare notes, quiz each other and even engage in a little playtime.
Quiz games such as Jeopardy may help students prepare for finals by making the review process more enjoyable, he said.
A self-described "people person," Johnson said he's better able to retain material he discusses with others. Study groups are most beneficial for students who like to reach a consensus before being tested, he said.
"A lot of my friends refuse to study with me, because I have the TV or radio going at all times," Christie Lovato said. "I can't just sit in a library or classroom in silence. I have to be able to hear things going on in the background."
Jennifer White said she sneaks studying into her day by carrying her backpack with her at all times. Every little bit helps, she said.
"I study in the car and at work when I have a minute of downtime," White said. "I don't have time to make a special trip to the library. I find time where and when I can."
Lovato said her study technique suits her, because she grew up with three younger siblings she's used to tuning out.
"I guess I've learned how to multitask," she said. "I can look like I'm listening to you when I'm really thinking about something else. That's why it's not a distraction for me to talk on the phone or surf the Web as I study."
Salazar said he doesn't understand people who can do five things at once.
"Everyone is different," he said. "Students just have to find a method that works for them."
Zimmerman Library Finals Week Hours:
Monday 8 a.m.-1 a.m.
Tuesday 8 a.m.-1 a.m.
Wednesday 8 a.m.-12 a.m.
Thursday 8 a.m.-12 a.m.
Friday 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
