SDSU Study Guide: Best Tips, Techniques and Spots in San Diego

SDSU Study Guide: Best Tips, Techniques and Spots in San Diego

We’ve gathered insights from SDSU alumni and Untapped Learning coaches to bring you the ultimate guide to studying at SDSU. From effective study techniques to the best study spots on and off campus, this guide will help you maximize your academic potential while fully enjoying your SDSU experience.

Discovering Your Study Style 

Before diving into techniques and locations, we need to understand how you learn best: 

• Do you focus better in busy environments or do you need peace and quiet? 
• Are you a morning person or a night owl? 
• Does movement before studying boost your focus? 

Knowing your preferences will help you choose the perfect study spot and maximize your productivity. 

How Exercise Boosts Study Performance at SDSU

Don’t underestimate the importance of physical activity in enhancing learning and memory. The Aztec Rec Center offers various options to get your body moving before a study session. Here’s why it’s beneficial: 

1. Improved focus: Even a short burst of exercise can sharpen your attention span, making those long study sessions more productive.
2. Enhanced learning: Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, potentially improving your ability to absorb and retain information. 
3. Better Memory: Regular exercise has been linked to short-term and long-term memory improvement. 
4. Stress and Anxiety Reduction: Working out can help manage stress levels, allowing you to approach your studies with a clearer mind. 

Try this: Before diving into a challenging study session, take a walk or do a quick workout to boost your focus and memory.

Proven Study Techniques for SDSU Students

According to our SDSU alumni, these study techniques were the best for them. 

1. Office Hours: Key to Academic Success

Office hours are a goldmine for academic success. Here’s how to make the most of this valuable resource: 

• Come prepared: Before heading to your professor’s office, write down specific questions or topics you want to discuss. This will show you’re proactive and help you use the time effectively. 

• Start early: Attend office hours within the first few weeks of the semester to build a connection with your professor.

• Seek clarity: Use this time to understand better expectations, assignment requirements, and exam formats specific to your classes. 

• Show initiative: Ask for feedback on your work and progress. This demonstrates your commitment to excelling and can benefit future academic references.

Remember, professors and TAs hold office hours because they want to support your learning journey. Most are approachable and genuinely interested in helping you succeed. Think of office hours as a chance to have a one-on-one session with an expert in your field of study – it’s an opportunity too valuable to miss.

2. The One-Page Wonder: Condense to Learn

Creating a one-page summary of your study material is an effective learning technique, especially for challenging courses. This method helps you:

1. Condense large amounts of information
2. Synthesize key concepts
3. Identify the most important points

For example, if you have a midterm in your biology course covering four chapters, try to distill all that information onto a single page. This process of summarization reinforces your understanding of the material.

Benefits

• Improves information retention
• Enhances your ability to connect different concepts
• Provides a concise reference for quick review
• Offers a clear start and end point, which can reduce anxiety about coursework

By synthesizing content into a compact, manageable format, you’re not just memorizing facts—you’re actively engaging with and organizing the material, significantly aiding your learning journey.

3. Listening to Audiobooks and a Walking Study Session

Combine physical movement with studying by listening to audiobooks or recorded lectures while walking. This approach not only helps you stay active but also helps in absorbing information differently.

Best Places On Campus to Study 

1. Malcolm A. Love Library: The heart of academic life at SDSU. It offers quiet spaces, collaborative areas, and a 24/7 study section for late-night sessions. The library’s resources and variety of study environments make it a top choice for all students.

2. Top of Student Services West: A study spot with panoramic views of the SDSU campus. It provides a peaceful environment for focused study sessions. The fresh air and amazing views make it a great spot for those needing a break from indoor spaces.

3. Mediterranean Garden: A calm outdoor space featuring blooming plants. It’s perfect for focused studying, especially during spring. The calming natural setting can help boost your mood and concentration.

4. Aztec Student Union (Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union): Has a variety of study spaces with comfortable seating and easy access to food and coffee. Balconies and terraces provide a mix of indoor and outdoor options. This lively space is perfect for both individual study and group collaboration.

5. EIS Building: Offers unique study areas, including open-air patios and a STEM courtyard. Balconies and terraces provide a mix of indoor and outdoor options. This modern facility encourages collaboration and interdisciplinary learning.

6. Storm Hall Terrace: Features renovated courtyards and new student plazas. It’s a beautiful spot for studying, especially during sunset. The combination of shaded areas and open spaces makes it a versatile study environment.

Off-Campus Study Spots in San Diego 

• Lestat’s Coffee House: Open until midnight, perfect for night owls who prefer a cozy study environment.

• Living Room Coffeehouse: A relaxed atmosphere that is close to campus—ideal for long study sessions.

• Mission Valley Public Library: Quiet and structured, with ample resources, free WiFi, and a peaceful atmosphere ideal for focused study sessions.

Where Not to Study at SDSU

While your dorm room might seem convenient, it’s often filled with distractions. To improve attention, memory, and learning, try to create a clear boundary between your living space and study area. 

Final Thoughts on Studying at SDSU

Discovering your ideal study habits isn’t just about passing classes—it’s about developing skills that will serve you well beyond your time at SDSU. Efficient studying means more time to explore San Diego, get involved on campus, and create lasting memories.

Need an extra boost? Untapped Learning offers personalized coaching to help you develop strategies that work for your unique learning style. Our team has worked with SDSU students and understands the challenges of balancing academics with campus life. 

Go Aztecs!

For More:

The Top Benefits of Studying Outside

Study Smarter, Not Harder

Steps To A Successful First Year at SDSU