From lectures to labs and study sessions to exams, it’s easy getting caught up in the whirlwind of it all. With such busy academic schedules, you can find yourself being crammed inside for far too long which can lead to a quick burn out. One of the strategies that helped recenter, refocus, and reinvigorate my studying was finding local green spaces where I could take my work! With a bit of sunscreen, fully charged electronics, and a hot spot, anywhere can be your new study space. For me, getting a bit of fresh air and sun is the perfect change of pace whilst maintaining productivity.
Here are 4 of my favorite local spots I would recommend!
1.Cal State Fullerton Arboretum
Right across the street from campus is the wonderful Cal State Fullerton Arboretum! Here you can walk though the 4 different biomes, watch turtles and water fowl paddle around a pond, stop and literally smell some roses, and wander to your heart’s content. A literal 5 minute walk from campus and you can find yourself in a Coniferous Forest, Deciduous Forest, Rainforest, or Desert! Because it is so close to campus and completely free (but they do accept donations!) It is a great 30 minute break to move your body and get a bit of fresh air!
2.Ted Craig Regional Park
Craig is another wonderful park everyone should go to! Parking within the park is $3 but there is plenty of free street parking outside of the entrance off of State College Blvd. There are many picnic tables spotted along the 124-acre space with lots of trees to provide shade and geese for entertainment. Find a bench and study with the ducks and enjoy this beautifully maintained park. Also for the runners out there, the paved paths that wind around the little lakes!
3. Mountain View Park
Mountain View Park is one of the closer green spaces to campus. It sits right on the top of a hill and is the perfect spot for a sunset picnic! It is definitely one of the smaller greenspaces on this list but by far it has some of the best views! I find myself making my way over here to take a step back, take a breath, and reset from whatever stress may have accumulated over time. There is a small rose garden that blooms beautifully in the spring making this small park a great escape for a bit of peace and quiet.
Strawberry Farm on Associated
Ever seen a farm underneath a highway? Neither have I until I stopped by Strawberry Farm on Associated! On Associated, you can find some of the freshest juiciest strawberries (along with some other seasonal veggies) from the farm stand. It is a stark change of scenery from the college suburbs that make up the area which is a great way to change up the pace of a regular work week. It is the perfect side quest to spice up an otherwise boring routine!
