With warm weather returning, the St. Thomas campus is coming alive again; students are studying on the quad, playing frisbee on the football field and laying out on the lawns. But the sudden increase in outdoor campus activity may make it harder to enjoy the sun while keeping your peace and quiet.
Here are some underrated sunny spots around St. Thomas’ St. Paul campus to soak up the sun, away from the noise and crowds of more popular outdoor areas.
1. Secret chapel garden
Sandwiched between the Chapel of St. Thomas Aquinas and Frey Hall is a mini garden with some nearby benches and tables, providing the perfect little escape if you still need to be near the center of campus or want to study outside.
If laying out on the lawn is more your style, walk around the back of the chapel and find some shade under the tree. The only interruptions will be the noisiness of the road, but I’d say that’s preferable to tons of people and the possibility of getting hit by a rogue Spikeball.
2. St. John Lawn
The upper quad is mostly characterized by the lawn between Dowling Hall and the chapel. Between Ireland Hall, St. John Vianney Seminary and Mennith Hall, there is a smaller lawn and a bench.
If I were on a phone call with a friend, this would be where I would sit down for a second and enjoy the subdued atmosphere of a typically busier place on campus. Tucked away, this lawn doesn’t experience as much use from students walking between the Northsider dining hall, the freshman dorms and the lower quad.
3. South Campus Quad
The Schoenecker Center is one of the most comfortable and dynamic places to study. With a variety of comfy chairs, whiteboards and desks, it may be easy to forget about the tables outside.
But while many students use the south campus quad to get to and from classes and their dorm, the quad’s tables tucked against the Schoenecker Center can offer a reprieve from studying inside.
Though less private than other places on campus, south campus is rarely rowdy, so it’s highly likely you’ll find some peace and quiet.
4. South Field
Located next to the Anderson Parking Facility, the South Athletic Fields is St. Thomas’ best alternative if you find the football field too busy. Sharing Grace Hall’s quiet and seclusion, south field is perfect for having your own space to play field games or just enjoy the sun-warmed bleachers for some Vitamin D.
5. St. Mary’s Chapel Sanctuary
South of the St. Mary’s Chapel on south campus lies a very elusive sanctuary. You’ll find perfect tables for studying in groups and the slightly overgrown feel of the surrounding plants provide a sense of escape from the world.
There’s no direct path to the sanctuary, but it’s visible from the Summit Avenue sidewalk.
Make the most out of our few warm days this spring and check out these more peaceful places around campus!
Leila Montoya can be reached at mont1761@stthomas.edu.
