For commuter students, campus often becomes a second home during long stretches between classes and even the occasional library all-nighter. In between lectures, meetings, and whatever else tethers you downtown for the day, check out these spots for a moment of Zen or a power nap.
Cafeteria, Rotman School of Management Building
The Rotman initiative to expand the school boasted a hefty budget of $91.8 million, leading to the production of this gorgeous building. Built in the past year, the cafeteria’s spacious interior and modern seating are perfect for a coffee date with a friend or a couple hours of studying, complimented by excellent people-watching through the large windows overlooking St. George and Harbord.
Kruger Hall Commons, Woodsworth College
Despite the college’s Victorian exterior, it houses a very modern interior. Within Kruger Hall lies a great expanse of open space with ample seating. It is also lined with multiple circular tables, which are convenient for larger groups.
Indoor Bamboo Gardens, Terrence Donnelly Centre
These isolated spaces surrounded by bamboo trees allow students to sit and enjoy indoor greenery that is hard to find in the city. Grab a tea and come take a seat on one of the benches to meditate and breathe.
Junior Common Room, University College
It is definitely worth your while to figure out how to reach this room within the maze of UC for its legendary sofas and cozy atmosphere. Commonly shortened as the JCR, it is also home to the college’s own student-run cafe, Diabolos’, which serves cheap coffee and bagels. It’s common to find students taking long naps here, so don’t be ashamed to lay out on a couch and snooze.
Cafeteria, Medical Science Building
Situated right in front of an assorted selection of fast-food chains — including Pizza Pizza and Spring Rolls — this space offers a great opportunity to sit down, enjoy a delicious meal, and read lecture notes all at the same time. If you’re with friends, the cafeteria extends into the adjacent room and contains comfy sofas well-suited for socializing.
The Understudy Cafe, Gerstein Library
When you feel like indulging in a well-deserved break after a copious amount of studying (or just browsing the internet, which is equally tiring), this cafe — situated near the main entrance of Gerstein — is the place to go. Besides some delicious meal options, The UnderStudy gets bonus points for providing a microwave to heat up meals brought from home by the savvy commuter.
