It’s a crisp Autumn day. Sunset-colored leaves dance through the wind, indie beats travel through your earphones, and the smell of pumpkin spice fills the room. However, as people swarm around you and chatter dilutes the melodic indie beat, this feeling quickly fades. Looking around, you realize studying in Shepard Commons is not the Chilton-coded dream you’d previously imagined. Some of Princeton Day School’s study spaces are grossly overrated (as they may not really encourage studying), while other underrated study spaces glimmer like hidden gems.

As mentioned previously, one of the most overrated study spots is Shephard Commons. The open space was designed to be a spot for freshmen to hang out, meet with teachers, and, of course, study. However, since the area is the primary hub for ninth-graders, the study idea soon backfired. Near constant chatter and laughter in Shepard can often make focusing very difficult. The raucous spot is commonly covered in crowds, tables claimed by backpacks, and couches invaded by computers. Freshman Lucy Li commented on Shepard’s distracting noise, explaining “the reason it’s so loud is because you get distracted and the reason you get distracted is because it’s so loud.” Thus, studying in Shephard Commons proves to be ineffective and distracting.. 

Basking in natural sunlight, the Arts Atrium tables are the epitome of underrated study spots. The quiet, open-space layout creates an environment perfect for focused study sessions. Other than occasional passerbys, the spot has few distractions. Additionally, at least one table is usually open, proving the atrium to be a reliable space. 

Unlike the atrium, the library booths are cramped, uncomfortable, and dimly lit, making them overrated. However, many students, such as Sophomore Sophie Yao, enjoy the booths: “The booths are a top choice for solo studying. They provide a quiet and private space within the library.” While Yao’s opinion is understandable, I still believe, considering the previously stated factors, that the library booths are extremely overrated.

Although some of Princeton Day School’s study spots are overrated, we can agree on one thing: from the campus center to the arts studio, Princeton Day School has a study spot for everybody. However, right now, my study spot is not for me…I’m sitting in Shephard Commons—but I can’t concentrate!