It’s no secret that homework is the one of the most hated parts about school. The scariest part of class is at the end when every student braces themselves to hear the words “you have homework tonight” or “finish this assignment up for homework.” Or when a huge test is tomorrow, and you must study and do homework for the same class on the same night.

When you have sports, work, and a social life, homework is the last thing you want to worry about. It takes up a lot of time and energy and can become the central agenda of your weekend. Homework and the stress it brings is unavoidable, so it’s important to find ways to make it less stressful and somewhat enjoyable. A way to do this is to go somewhere different to do your homework or study. A different environment can make things interesting and keep you engaged. There are many places in Erie that are perfect places to do this by yourself or with friends.

A perfect place for this is Panera, which has multiple locations in Erie. There are tons of different seating options and many outlets for charging electronics at tables. The free WiFi is also a helpful service at Panera. You can order a drink, lunch, breakfast, or a bakery item and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Since a lot of people do their homework there, the environment is usually fairly quiet and perfect for focusing on your tasks.

“I think studying at places like Panera or other cafes allows for a break from the traditional school setting,” junior Finleigh Handzel said. “Schools are full of florescent lighting, so it’s nice to have access to natural light. Natural light provides a more relaxed setting. I enjoy studying in places like Panera better than at school because it is a laid-back atmosphere.”

The Gannon library, named Nash Library, is another suitable place to do homework or study. This public building located downtown is large and modern, with tons of windows that offer great natural light. This is a perfect place to go with a group of friends and do schoolwork because there are many tables and comfortable chairs that vary in style and size. This library also provides multiple floor levels for all types of study environments. People can browse from a large collection of books and DVD’s available to borrow. There is also a café, technology support center, computer lab, Gannon archives, STEM center, Writing and Research Center, outdoor garden seating, personal study rooms, and media study rooms.

“The Nash Library has a ton of studying resources,” senior Rory Noonan said. “They have various spaces in which you can study. You can reserve study rooms, they have tons of tables, and even have little cubicles. I find the library great for writing papers because I have access to all the books that are useful resources when it comes to research. The Nash Library has a great study environment and allows me to focus and get schoolwork done.”

If you’re looking for a smaller, cozier environment, go to Pressed Books and Coffee. This two in one café and book shop near Frontier Park is a popular place amongst students. They offer lunch food, bakery items, coffee, and a variety of sweet drink and treats. They also offer free WiFi along with many charging outlets scattered near seating areas. However, Pressed is more suitable for solo study and homework time due to the limited seating capacity. The great food, comfortable atmosphere, and quiet workspace makes it worth the visit.

“My time management is much better when I’m studying at a café rather than my house,” senior Mya Schenker said. “My work quality is better and more efficient because I was able to focus better.”

Downtown Erie has another great spot for studying and doing homework: The Flagship City Food Hall. This is a unique and modern place with a series of indoor hallways that have different restaurant stands along the way that you can choose from. Once you make your food choice, you can find any of the different seating options available. This place is great for large groups to study and do homework because there is something for everyone. Whether they want a drink, a full meal, or just a snack, the Food Hall provides it. There is also a lot of younger people who go to the Food Hall, so it is a common place for students to have a familiar experience. As this place is downtown, there are many things to do around the Food Hall, so necessary materials can be found nearby if needed.

“I love being in public settings when I do my homework. It’s nice to see other people studying around me because it also inspires me to get my work done,” Lexi Mobilia, Class of 2023 said. “I also love studying where my friends might be, just so I have the chance to bump into someone I know and have a quick conversation. Most of the time I can study longer and get more work done when I am in public settings.”

Homework and studying doesn’t have to be a painful experience. There are ways to make it easier and more efficient. Going to places like Panera, Nash Library, Pressed, and the Food Hall can be a great way to socialize and manage your work.