In the world of asynchronous classes and the social nightmare of breakout rooms, students are taking control of what they can. For many, the autonomy of being able to take classes in a place of their choosing is one of the few perks of online learning. Of course, each student has their own preference for which location is best.

For those who find it comforting to watch Netflix while also on TikTok in order to ensure maximum input, the bustling atmosphere of Opus may be the ideal location. The music in the background as well as the energetic atmosphere offer the perfect amount of distraction. If silence is not your friend, Opus offers a great alternative place to take your classes from. You can pick a table by the window or an armchair, whatever suits you best. Christina Bagins ’24 said, “My favorite place to do classes is a comfy chair in Opus!” Plus, you are never far from a study break snack!

Also on the Dark Side, KJ offers more conventional study spaces to take classes. This modern building once again has the choice of armchairs or tables, with a few coveted private study rooms. Perfect for concentrating, the atrium or the desks dispersed in more isolated locations all offer great study locations, whether it be on Zoom or asynchronous. Plus, the second floor offers a beautiful view while it is snowing with the gaping windows and skylights.

However, there really is no place like home. Roommates Sophie Antone and Kate Bacigalupo, both first years, said that their favorite place to do online classes was from the comfort of their dorm room. “You don’t have to wear a mask,” Kate replied when I asked what the best thing about working from her room was. Similarly, Sophie explained how it “removed the anxiety of trying to find a spot in KJ on a busy day.” The privacy and convenience of doing classes from dorm rooms is even more useful during the winter months when going outside is no easy feat.

Of course, the Light Side has its fair share of locations to take advantage of. The two study rooms in Root Hall offer a perfect place to take classes, along with close proximity to Commons. “It is easier to find a space in Root and it is less crowded than most other places,” Alex Carducci ’24 explained. There were few advocates for the library, as participating on Zoom in the quiet atmosphere of the library can be “awkward” according to Katie Powell ’24. Although ideal for asynchronous work, the silent library and close proximity to others working makes it one of the less desirable places to attend Zoom classes.