Study halls during the school day in years prior contain some of my favorite memories at The Mount. During study halls prior to this year, I did not spend very much time doing homework. Those memories of goofing off used  to be the highlights of my week. This year, study halls have changed drastically with new rules set in place to create a more productive studying atmosphere for all students.

The standard set up last year included being quiet, minding your own business, and asking questions during the five minute breaks every thirty minutes if needed. These were baseline rules that could be added depending on the study hall proctor. This year, a consensus was reached by the study hall proctors during a back-to-school meeting. This decision has explicitly set up rules that create a more effective studying atmosphere.

The decisions made for studying time are productive but lose the fun of communicating with classmates. Being able to collaborate with classmates about topics unrelated or even to get help with schoolwork is not only beneficial but refreshing during the study hall monotony. Besides talking during study halls we have lunch, but it is not enough time to talk to other students.

These new study hall stipulations have improved productivity and focus, but they lose the community aspect of bonding. I have been enjoying the silence and productivity of the new study halls, but the fun that I have experienced will be a memory that I will cherish forever.