August 13, 2025 marked the first day of the new 2025-2026 school year. As the transition of this new school year takes place, students are slowly adjusting to their new environments and teachers. However, the number of areas and sections of the school can make it hard to decide what place on campus to complete your specific assignment. When you have a free period, where should you go to complete your homework or to work on a group project? What is the best place to hang out with friends? In fact, most students have a similar opinion.
Inman is a popular spot for lowerclassmen to hang out with their friends during free periods. “I like Inman because it is a place where you can be yourself and hang out with your friends,” said freshman Aviana Kokane. In Inman, there is also a gym where students can enjoy some downtime to play sports such as volleyball. In addition to homework, it is important to prioritize time to relax and wind down from a busy day full of classes.
If you have a free period and know you have extracurriculars after school, you could use a free period to your advantage. During this time, a majority of students enjoy sitting in the Upper Library for a time of full quiet and concentration. No matter if it is completing homework or studying for a big test the next day, the Upper Library has a calm environment that ensures students’ productivity. There are small sofas, chairs and walled study areas for whatever mood you are in. “Being in the Upper Library makes me feel like I have to get work done, so I am able to be more productive there,” said sophomore Amelit Hall.
For studying with friends or working on group projects, most students like to sit in study rooms. There are various study rooms throughout the Upper School Building, with a few on each floor. Additionally, there are study rooms in the Upper Library, although these are used as quiet work spaces. These rooms allow students to study comfortably with less distractions while also working together with friends to share knowledge and different perspectives of the information learned in class.
No matter what the occasion is, there is always a place for your interests and necessities at Pace.

Caption: Upper School students answered a poll on their favorite places to hang out with friends.

Caption: Upper School students answered a poll on their favorite places to study by themselves.

Caption: Upper School students answered a poll on their favorite places to study out with friends.
Credit: Ashley Hua