Choose the Right Spot: Prioritize separation from high-traffic areas (i.e., avoid the kitchen or living room). Think of areas such as walk-in closets, a corner of a bedroom (use a room divider or bookshelf as a barrier), or underutilized spaces like basement, attic, or even a large walk-in pantry. If you have no option but to use high-traffic areas like the living room, negotiate a schedule that allows you to use the space during low-traffic hours.
Soundproofing Hacks: Block noise cheaply by placing clothes or blankets around the door to seal gaps. Run a fan or the A/C to use as background, white noise. Invest in noise-cancelling headphones for reading and studying.
Lighting: Use a desk lamp with warm bulbs to reduce eye strain. Avoid harsh overhead lights. Some drivers have shared using string lights or other ambient lights for different room feels.
Seating: Make sure the item you're sitting on is comfortable and versatile. Yoga balls, ottomans, and even bean bags are all valid options if they can keep you focused without sacrificing your posture. Keep in mind that this item must be comfortable to use for long hours.
Desks: A foldable lap desk ($20 on Amazon) or a wall-mounted drop-leaf table saves space. If you're just wanting something to put your laptop and notebook in, something as simple as an L-shaped side table could serve as desktop. If you can afford purchasing an electrical standing-desk, those are game-changers for space, versatility, and body inclusivity!
Webcam Placement for Proctored Exams: ASU Online often uses HonorLock or Zoom proctoring, which require a quiet, private space with a webcam. For many of these platforms you must scan the entire room where you plan on taking the exam. The less items/objects/decor you have in the room, the better. Use a tripod or stack of books to position the camera at eye level (required by HonorLock). In your background, hang a solid-color sheet or poster board behind you to minimize distractions. If available, choose an empty, plain color wall as your background. Remember to plan ahead for taking exams and consider taking them during low-demand driving hours.
Household Rules & Boundaries: Signal your study time. Wear headphones (even if silent) to signal you’re unavailable but be mindful of over-doing it. Use a red/green light system on your door (i.e., a sticky note), or other item or sign to indicate unavailability. Negotiate quiet hours by asking housemates/family for 2–3 hours of quiet during exam times. Early mornings and late nights are generally the quietest times of day.
Hayden Library, Zero Floor (under Hayden Lawn): there are cubicles and sectionals for quiet studying. Students can also rent out private study rooms (bring your student ID).
Noble Library, Second Floor is also a great option and provides similar environments to Hayden Library.
Public Libraries offer private study rooms (often reservable online) and free Wi-Fi. Larger libraries (e.g., county/city systems) may have longer hours. Availability and access depends on what city you are currently driving at that is part of the tuition reimbursement program (Phoenix, Chicago, Denver, New Orleans, Seattle, Orlando, Tampa, New Jersey).
Hot-Desking at Starbucks: Some ASU partner locations (like Starbucks Community Stores) offer study-friendly environments.
Study Room Rentals: There are apps like Peerspace or WeWork On Demand that rent private quiet study rooms or large conference rooms for group meetings.
Do Not Disturb Mode: Enable it on all devices to block notifications, or even better, turn off devices.
Pomodoro method: Study for 25 mins, then take a 5-min break (use a timer app).
Establish rituals that feel right to you, like creating a playlist for your driving shifts, and another playlist for studying. Rituals can mean anything to anyone. One driver shared that filling up his gas tank at the end of his shift driving at night and cleaning out his car was a ritual for him that would help him be ready the next day.
Speechify ( requires subscription) is an AI that reads you articles, documents, PDF's, and websites out loud (as if you were listening to a podcast). It is a game-changer if you are a slow reader. It boosts your comprehension and retention of the material.