

International Student Ambassador Aleksandra shares her favourite places on campus to study
My name is Aleksandra and I am a third year Drama and Performance student at the СÀ¶ÊÓƵ. Being a university student means you are taking responsibility for your course and your future, which is going to be time consuming around term times.
To help with that, the University has not only a big library but also many open areas on campus where you can work on your studies, do coursework and meet with coursemates for your projects. It is a perfect chance for you to discover other buildings and study among new people.
Here are some of my favourite spots on campus:
ICP (International College СÀ¶ÊÓƵ)
In ICP you can find a big common room on the top floor. It has the opportunity to work in a big group or by yourself. The building is open from Monday to Friday, from early morning to late afternoon. ICP is situated in the heart of the СÀ¶ÊÓƵ, at the centre of the city.
Boutique Espresso in Eldon building
Eldon is the main CCI building that has a beautiful cafe near the entrance and a cosy atmosphere. It is an ideal place for a quick break between lectures and for meet-ups with your coursemates, whether for a rest or working on a project. The building is located just on the opposite side of ICP.
White Swan
The building for drama, performance and musical theatre has 6 big studios that can be booked during term times, they are ideal for students who need more open space and silence. On the top floor there is also a small common room where you can work by yourself and enjoy the calm atmosphere.
Chaplaincy
The Chaplaincy Centre can be found on St Pauls Road, open to all students. You can go there for a chat, somewhere to meet with friends or just find some quiet space. It is open only during the weekdays but offers free tea and coffee.
Portland Building
This building has lots of available places where you can sit and do your coursework and assignments. There is an open space area with many tables and chairs where you can enjoy the sunny days or our Portland Coffee Shop that has multiple laptop charging points and you can choose between an indoor and outdoor seating.
Finding new spots on campus can enhance your focus and reduce distractions, such as noise. It could increase your motivation and make studying feel less routine and boring. University often requires flexibility, if you have a gap between classes you can easily fill it by going to the common room or the university cafe.
Studying in new places, especially outdoors, can improve mental well-being and reduce stress. Some of these places offer natural light, peaceful atmosphere and access to technology.