For many of us, going into the town of Hamilton is an exciting excursion. We bundle up, gather friends and make a list of what we want to stock up on. Upon arriving back to Colgate University’s campus, you feel refreshed after a change of scenery. Now, imagine leaving campus and returning done with your homework assignments and with a clear understanding of your tasks for the coming weeks — it feels amazing.
My favorite study spot is the beloved weekend breakfast place, Flour & Salt. Bustling with students on Saturday and Sunday mornings, the cafe makes for a great study spot throughout the week or during the afternoons on the weekend.
The first time I went to study there was with my friend during finals week. It was a weekday that we both didn’t have any finals, so we had the whole day to ourselves. Instead of spending the entire day cooped up in the library, we layered up and took the first shuttle into town. We ate our breakfast and started our work seated by the window.
You feel immersed in the town as you watch residents walk their adorable dogs, interact with other customers and see groups of people catch the newest movie in town — which you make a mental note to watch. Other than the light background music and occasional chatter, the store is quiet and makes for an easy place to focus during those times. And, after finishing your work, it’s easy to reward yourself on the way back to campus, whether you grab a freshly-baked pastry or head across the street and treat yourself to new merch from the Colgate Bookstore.
First-year Scarlett Flight said she enjoys spending afternoons on weekdays studying at Flour & Salt on days she gets out of class earlier.
“Arriving at Flour & Salt early in the afternoon with my homework assigned that morning is such a nice feeling. By the time I’m done with lunch, I’m done with my reading that was assigned to me the same day,” Flight said. “I just feel so much more productive working at Flour & Salt as opposed to the library. I think it’s because going into town, especially without a car, can seem like such a trek in this weather, so just getting to town is productive in itself. I’m able to reset myself off campus while getting my assignments done, it’s great.”
Sophomore Annika Hansen said she loves studying at Flour & Salt with a friend.
“It’s fun to go with a friend because you guys can hold each other accountable and actually get your assignments done, but also you’re in an environment where you can talk so it’s nice to take breaks and catch up,” Hansen said. “Also, you have somebody you can peruse stores with on the way out. And, of course, Flour & Salt is just such a cozy spot with a gorgeous view.”
First-year Maggie Gibbons also considers Flour & Salt to be one of her favorite study spots.
“I love sitting down at an armchair facing the window at Flour & Salt to start my work,” Gibbons explained. “It’s so pretty. Often snow is falling, so it just feels like you’re in a snow globe. I love it so much. It also smells like fresh baked pastries. It’s definitely one of the most relaxing spots.”
If you haven’t tried studying at Flour & Salt, I recommend it. Perhaps you’ll discover it to be your new favorite study spot.
