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One thing I didn’t expect when I started university was how much trial and error it would take to find a good place to study. As a mature student, especially when juggling home life, work, or caregiving responsibilities, the environment in which I study can significantly affect both my productivity and my overall well-being. 

In my first year, I spoke with another student who was both a parent and a grandparent. Their home had always been lively and welcoming their mother would drop by for tea, and their adult children and grandchildren would often visit. This arrangement worked well when working full-time but became more complicated once they began studying from home. Their family saw them at home and assumed they were available for interaction. Consequently, quiet time was hard to come by, and they faced frequent interruptions. 

They dedicated a few days each week to studying on campus to address this. This choice was about escaping distractions and mentally transitioning into “study mode,” setting boundaries, and protecting their time. 

That conversation resonated with me. I now try to do the same by spending at least one or two days a week on campus, even though I could technically study at home. Sometimes, I need a change of scenery; other times, I need a table and no distractions. I've noticed that other mature students do the same for various reasons. For some, it’s about making the most of their commute; for others, it’s because home is too chaotic or they concentrate better in different environments. 

I’ve realised how motivating it can be to study alongside other people. Being in a space where others are working, even if they are strangers, helps me stay focused. There’s a sense of quiet accountability, as if we are all together. And if you’re fortunate enough to have a study buddy, that’s even better. Coordinating on-campus study days with someone else can provide the extra motivation needed to show up and get to work. You don’t have to take the same course; having someone nearby to share a coffee or bounce ideas off can make a significant difference. 

The good news is that you have plenty of options. There are various study spaces on campus; you’ll discover which ones work best for you over time. Some of us enjoy the tranquillity of the library, while others prefer the more casual atmosphere of the Student Centre or find a cosy corner in their academic building. It’s not always about silence; sometimes, just being around other people who are also working can inspire you and prevent you from spending an hour scrolling through TikTok. 

I’ve found bringing my lunch or snacks helpful, especially if I plan to stay on campus all day. Many study spaces have kettles or microwaves, which is great for sticking to a budget or managing time effectively. 

When I need a break, I like to go for a walk. Falmer is filled with little paths and green spaces sometimes, I’ll take a full lap around campus or enjoy a five-minute stroll to clear my head. I’ve solved many essay problems mid-walk without realising I was thinking about them.

Lou studies Criminology and Criminal Justice at Sussex. She loves running and dogs.