Something else to focus on...
A long while back, I wrote about the utility in knowing the shortcuts about campus, and also how much I enjoy knowing them. When the rain is falling and you didn't pack an umbrella, knowing where to cut into the chemistry building and where it will come out is a great way to not walk in the rain for a block. Especially as an undergrad, this could be deeply important when your classes were dispersed all over campus (definitely a real concern for someone going for three degrees).
Now, though, as a grad student, all of my classes are either in Vilas Hall or directly across the street (accessible by bridge, in one case). There is much less impetus in knowing shortcuts. But with the sheer amount of reading to do, knowing where to study, where to eat, and all of those things can be a big deal. It's all fine and dandy to enjoy eating at Ian's Pizza, for example, but when Ian's is about half a mile or more from where you're working, and you have to guzzle down several books, this is a big deal.
For someone like me, it is a particular concern. Much of the reading I'm doing is on the internet or requires research on the internet. I take notes on my computer. An outlet matters a lot. Other concerns are issues like comfort (or lack thereof, which is occasionally useful), noise, space, and the like.
I've collected a bunch of these spots over the years. Knowing them is deeply valuable. Right now, I'm at one that I wouldn't have considered much in times past: the balcony of the Memorial Union, overlooking the lake. It's peaceful and secluded, a real rarity for outdoor table space in this town. For some reason, there is a large tent which keeps everything in the shade. I can play my music and not feel as though I'm imposing. There is a ton of space. There is a small murmur from people down below, but nothing to get me involved in their conversation as a more active listener. It's really quite wonderful. Easily one of my top five spots right now.
But, for now, it's back to work. Read, read, read, my boy...
Now, though, as a grad student, all of my classes are either in Vilas Hall or directly across the street (accessible by bridge, in one case). There is much less impetus in knowing shortcuts. But with the sheer amount of reading to do, knowing where to study, where to eat, and all of those things can be a big deal. It's all fine and dandy to enjoy eating at Ian's Pizza, for example, but when Ian's is about half a mile or more from where you're working, and you have to guzzle down several books, this is a big deal.
For someone like me, it is a particular concern. Much of the reading I'm doing is on the internet or requires research on the internet. I take notes on my computer. An outlet matters a lot. Other concerns are issues like comfort (or lack thereof, which is occasionally useful), noise, space, and the like.
I've collected a bunch of these spots over the years. Knowing them is deeply valuable. Right now, I'm at one that I wouldn't have considered much in times past: the balcony of the Memorial Union, overlooking the lake. It's peaceful and secluded, a real rarity for outdoor table space in this town. For some reason, there is a large tent which keeps everything in the shade. I can play my music and not feel as though I'm imposing. There is a ton of space. There is a small murmur from people down below, but nothing to get me involved in their conversation as a more active listener. It's really quite wonderful. Easily one of my top five spots right now.
But, for now, it's back to work. Read, read, read, my boy...