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It’s no secret that we, as engineering students, have much studying to do. Even as a sophomore, I can attest to that. 16-18 units is no joke, and with so much time spent with our noses in books, we deserve the best study spots. Along with all that studying, I feel like engineering students often miss out on time spent outside in the gorgeous LA weather. Thus, in no particular order, I have collected my 3 favorite outdoor study spots on campus. Disclaimer: I am a freshman and there is a high likelihood there are better spots found by upperclassmen; however, this doesn’t take away from the fact that these spots are still really nice.  

Grassy areas by the Fisher Museum: I love studying outdoors, I think that it helps me to feel the sun and grass and breeze when I’m working to counteract the comp sci or calculus homework. Behind Watt Hall and by the Fisher Museum, there are a lot of random patches of grass to sit at and do work. I love this area too because it’s sort of hidden and there isn’t a lot of foot traffic so it feels very private. Really great place to study or just simply enjoy the sun!

Outdoor seating at Annenberg: The best part about the outdoor seating at Annenberg is the maze of paths that makes up Founders Park and the surrounding buildings as a view. This part of campus is always lush and shady, perfect for a hot day. The seating behind Annenberg is perfect because you don’t need a blanket but it’s still immersed in nature. Plus, if you’re lucky, you can hear different student musicians playing in study tents as it is next to the music school. It’s really a beautiful location.

Tutor Hall Cafe at Ronald Tutor Hall: Tutor Hall Cafe is one of my favorite places to eat with a meal swipe when I’m not feeling dining hall food, and the outdoor (and indoor) seating is amazing. So much nature, other Viterbi students, good Indian food and sandwiches. The only drawback is that it can get kind of windy because of its position. However, when it’s sunny and there’s a light breeze, I love to sit outside at Tutor and do work, especially since it’s close to Viterbi classes as well. 

Vidya Iyer

MAJOR: Environmental Engineering YEAR: Class of 2025 HOMETOWN: Des Moines, Iowa PRONOUNS: they/them/theirs Outside of VSA, I am a co-Lead Organizer for Student Coalition for Asian Pacific Empowerment, volunteer at the LGBTQ+ student center, and I participate in activism across USC and LA! I'm looking to get into research this year as well, hopefully in water quality or CO2 recycling.