Joana Michaelis, MA Content & Media Strategy student 

Being a student means spending lots of time on campus, right? Well, lots? It depends. Some students go to class and then disappear, while others feel like the campus becomes a second home. But let’s face it, why not make full use of a place that gives you comfy places to sit and free coffee? I’ve spent quite a lot of time on campus and done my exploring, so let me give you my top 5 spots at the campus in Leeuwarden for studying, group meetings and school breaks.  

*Good to know: there are two main campus buildings, Rengerslaan 8 and Rengerslaan 10. I’ll call them R8 and R10 here. 

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Blue Cubes

You know that feeling when you want to study at home, but can't concentrate? I feel exactly the same way. Every time I try to study, I get distracted by other things at home. So, I started studying by myself on campus before and after classes and even on days off. The blue wooden cubes in Rengerslaan 8 (R8) are the perfect solo study spot as they create a sort of barrier between your study space and everyone else at the university. The space is perfect for one or two people, but don’t cosy in with many more than that as it will feel cramped. Some of these cubes are also located around the café in R8, so as well as being a great solo study spot, you can easily order good coffee, tea or juices. 

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Study Landscape

But what if you have a group meeting? Then the best spots, in my opinion, are the study landscapes in both campus buildings. These are spaces where you can easily meet with bigger groups, work together on your project and discuss things openly. The study landscape in R10 stretches along the rear of the building all the way from the ground floor to the third floor. The study landscape in R8 is part of the library, which is super handy if you need to grab any books for your study session. Extra bonus! Café IF is just opposite the study landscape, so you can pop there for a quick break, something to eat and drink and a chat with friends. Some people also like studying here by themselves, but I find it more of a social setting and wouldn't be able to concentrate. How about you? 

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Canteens and Café IF

Do you love food? Then the best spot on campus for you to take a break is the canteen in R8, the food court in R10 and Café IF in R8. The canteen and the food court are both run by the hotel management students and offer a great variety of foods. From sandwiches and soups to smoothies and spring rolls, you’re sure to find something cheap and delicious for your taste buds. The canteen in R8 has a big space with lots of tables and benches to sit down for a lunch break and the food court in R10 has loads of comfy spots and study tables. And if I get tired of the big spaces, the I head to Café IF, just across from the library in R8. The café offers a variety of foods and changes its menu each week.  

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Outside

Imagine it’s nice weather outside (yes! It really does happen!) and you have classes and meetings spread throughout the day. Why not get a change of scenery and take a break or even your meetings outside? I love having my breaks outside when the weather’s good on the square between the buildings. There are plenty of benches, grass spots and water fountains to relax at. We’ve actually even moved classes here a couple of times. Another great option is the Inspiration Garden at R10. You can relax here by chilling on bean bags or by playing some big chess, but there are also outdoor tables, so you can easily have a group meeting while you enjoy the nice weather. 

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Different academies

There are actually loads more study spots at NHL Stenden and each academy has its own area for their students. If you’re wondering what makes them so special, the answer is simple: each academy has a unique area, some have more tables and some more couches and beanbags. So, depending on what you need for your study session, you can find yourself a nice, cosy spot to unwind in between classes, be majorly productive or, if you need to, meet up with your coaches and ask them questions. 

As you can see, the campus in Leeuwarden has a lot to offer, so go explore, get inspired and find your own favourite spots to study and relax. And maybe I’ll see you around sometime?