The bell rings as you find yourself still standing in the hallway, wandering aimlessly to find a good place to study. With options becoming limited at the beginning of the month, it feels harder than ever to get that perfect place to do your work during study hall or blended. 

However, there is still a good variety of places to go that offer whatever you are looking for, whether that be a place to talk to friends or do your work quietly.

#3 – PAC Hallway Tables

While this area is not open to students currently, it is one of the best locations to study in the school. It offers a nice, quiet environment where students can spread out. 

Some negatives in this area include the high traffic during passing periods and limited table selection. If you don’t get to this area quickly, it’s likely you won’t be able to find a table. 

“It’s less crowded, it’s quiet, and it’s away from the classrooms I’m usually in,” junior Lucas Sciascia said. “It’s a nice break from the rest of the school.”

It would be in the students’ best interest if the school reopened this location because of its many benefits when studying or relaxing during a free period. 

#2 – Passive Commons

The passive commons are a great place for a more casual or collaborative study hour. If you find yourself wanting to work with friends on a project or enjoy a snack while studying, the passive commons is the best option. 

With a moderate amount of tables and the cafe just a few steps away, students can complete their schoolwork with friends or enjoy a cup of coffee in this location. It offers more freedom in terms of noise and food rules, as opposed to some other locations like the Hub or a teacher’s classroom. Also, students who are seeking independence during their study or blended hour can still have that break from the classroom that they seek. 

“It offers the chance to talk to students around me,” junior Norah Garrity said. “It’s also next to the garden, which is nice and peaceful. .”

Despite these positives, the passive commons does have some issues depending on what someone is seeking to get out of the location. If you are looking for a quiet workspace, the passive commons is likely not the right fit for you. It can also be distracting if you sit with friends or have food during work time. What’s important is to know what you can handle during your study time and potentially choose a different location if these pluses and minuses don’t align with what you need.

#1 – Hub

This area is by far the best study location in the school. With a guaranteed quiet area, multiple different seating options, and good WiFi, the Hub surpasses all of the competition easily. 

“The Hub is a great place to study because it’s quiet and serene,” junior Mackenzie Stone said. “I’m able to get lots of work done and focus.” 

The best part about the Hub besides it offering a sanctuary of quiet in the school is the seating options. From comfy chairs, desks, and tables, there are so many options to fit your needs when studying. 

While the Hub does have many great benefits, it is important to consider that you cannot have drinks or snacks other than water. Also, since the Hub is designed to be a quiet area, there is no chance to work with peers unless if you make a reservation for one of the collaboration rooms. 

Huntley High School has a variety of great locations to study in, especially when compared to other schools in the area. But even with this variety, it can be difficult to find the perfect place to finish your work. 

The best recommendation for a quiet workspace would be the Hub, for its comfort and variety in seating and focus-stimulating environment. If you’re looking for a collaborative location, the best area is the Passive Commons, which offers table seating and the option to talk or have a snack. 

In the end, the best study space relies on what you need to get out of your study session. What is best for you? That is the question that truly matters.