Many of us grow accustomed to routine throughout the semester, meeting friends or doing homework in comfortable spots across campus. There are many cozy nooks and fun places to explore throughout APU’s campuses, however. From study spots, to places to socialize, to peaceful hubs for prayer, here are some APU students’ and alumni’s favorite areas on campus:
The Cougar Dome
For Pablo Aristizabal, ’25, the Cougar Dome is his favorite spot on campus. As a commuter, he appreciates the comfortable lounge spaces and free snacks. “It’s a great place to study, but also to enjoy times with friends and play fun games with them,” he said. Between a ping pong table, pool table, basketball hoops, and more, the Cougar Dome is a great place for taking a break after class, socializing, and giving commuters a home away from home.
Mary Hill Garden
Kinley Hartz, ’26, finds tranquility in the Mary Hill garden. “I love it because it adds a spot of green to the brilliantly beautiful West Campus. The trees and the stones provide a quiet, peaceful atmosphere in the middle of a hectic day,” she said. Located between the Felix Event Center and the Mary Hill Building, this prayer garden is accessible while traveling between classes, chapel, and meetings. “There is a perfect view of the flower wall and the prominent cross too! This is a beautiful spot to take a moment, take a breath and live in the peace of Christ!” “
Stamps Library
Calli Cox, ’23, recalls enjoying time to focus and complete homework in the James L. Stamps Theological Library. “Stamps feels like its own little world within APU where I could find a nook to focus and study,” she said. Along with the coziness of being surrounded by books, Cox often found a quiet spot on the library’s couch to have a productive, yet comfortable work space.
The Turtle Pond (East Campus)
Kasey Clark’s, ’25, favorite spot is the turtle pond in Wynn Amphitheater. “I’ve always loved observing animals, and the turtle pond was one of the first things I thought was cool about APU,” she said. Clark has fond memories of visiting the turtle pond while waiting for her father, Michael Dean Clark, PhD, before she started studying at APU. “Now, as a student it’s a calming space. Especially as a social work major with classes almost exclusively in Wynn, the pond has consistently been a peaceful place.”
Marshburn Library’s 3rd Floor
Caedon Spilman, ’23, found William V. Marshburn Memorial Library’s 3rd floor is the perfect place for studying with a view. As a student, he typically sat on the north side by the large windows. “I love looking down into the amphitheater and the street, and everyone knows how the Azusa sunsets are spectacular,” he said. Checking tasks off his to-do list were a lot less overwhelming with the pleasant scenery to look forward to.
Segerstrom Atrium
Aniya Rivera, ’26, enjoys spending time in the Segerstrom Atrium on West Campus. “I love being near the turtle pond and all the trees, which creates such a peaceful environment for studying and relaxation,” she said. Whether you’re hoping to finish assignments, prepare for a test, or absorb some sunshine, the Segerstrom Atrium is a beautiful place to observe nature during a busy day of classes.
The Rose Garden
The most whimsical place to be, APU’s Rose Garden is my favorite spot on campus. A serene setting, it is most beautiful in the spring when the flowers are bright and blooming around the wooden arbor arches. Water pours out of a quaint fountain, creating a space that makes you feel like you’ve traveled back in time to a fairytale oasis. Home to the English and Communication departments, the Rose Garden is where many alfresco dining events are hosted, students gather for picnics, and it provides a quiet space to read or write on a sunny day.