Graphic by Rielle Reyes ’27/The Choate News
By Alexis Lee ’28 Reporter
As students juggle academics, sports, and social commitments, finding the perfect place to study can be challenging. Despite the variety of workspaces Choate’s campus offers, escaping familiar surroundings and enjoying a change of scenery can sometimes be helpful.
One popular off-campus spot for studying is the Wallingford Public Library. Leah Han ’27 often goes there with friends when she’s looking for a quiet place to study. She explained, “Since it’s not on campus, there are fewer interactions with other Choate students, which makes it easier to focus.”
Sara McLaughlin ’26, who also frequents the public library, added, “It’s really quiet, and you can find a little isolated spot in the corner.” She appreciates the calm environment, which is ideal for long study sessions. For students who prefer spacious and quiet study environments, the Wallingford Public Library is an excellent option. Additionally, it is right across the street from campus.
While the Wallingford Public Library is ideal for silent studying, cafés offer a more casual and flexible atmosphere. Han mentioned that cafés can sometimes be noisy and crowded, yet they remain popular among Choate students. McLaughlin agreed, also noting that being able to grab a drink or a snack while studying is a major benefit. “Choate students like to go to cafes [to study] because Choate students like food,” McLaughlin explained.
In Wallingford, two cafes have stood out for their cozy, welcoming vibes: Green Kettle Coffee and Café Luca Belle. Mariana Verdi ’25, a regular at Green Kettle, shared, “It’s peaceful, small, and nearby.” She also highlighted the cafe’s distinct green interior, which enhances the relaxed atmosphere. Green Kettle Coffee offers a range of drinks, including espresso, tea, and seasonal beverages.
Similarly, Leanna Robie ’25 enjoys Café Luca Belle for its warm, comforting feel. “The positive atmosphere of the coffee shop makes it a great space to study,” she said. Robie enjoys their wide selection of drinks, and Ming Qin ’25 often orders caffeinated drinks to help him stay focused during study sessions. Qin also recommends Café Luca Belle for its “really nice bagel selection.”
For those seeking a larger space, Qin suggests Le Jardin Café, known for its fun drinks and pastries. Qin shared, “When I’m mentally locked down into studying, I prefer somewhere snug. But when I’m brainstorming, I like the open space at Le Jardin.”
Despite the advantages of studying in cafes, there are some potential drawbacks — certain locations are farther away, and space can be limited. Nevertheless, Qin pointed out that having food or something to drink, combined with the dynamic change in environment, helps him work more effectively. “When I spend too much time in one place, my brain slows down,” he explained. The variety of cafes in town offers students a refreshing break from campus and the flexibility to choose distinct study environments based on their preferences and needs.
Although many students enjoy studying off campus on the weekends, they often prefer on-campus study spaces during the week. Han and Verdi, for example, frequently use the Andrew Mellon Library or the St. John Hall study rooms after sports or during free blocks. While the public library and cafés are great for individual work, these on-campus spaces are convenient and offer large tables, making them ideal for group projects. Their close locations are also more accessible for fitting in quick study sessions. On weekends, however, exploring the town and visiting local cafés with friends can provide a much-needed break, allowing students to recharge while still staying productive.
