THE SALT PONDS OF MARAS —  After a four year search for a study spot that started in the lowly depths of Darnall Hall, student Henry Kirkpatrick (SFS ’15) reported last week he had found a study spot in the salt flats of Maras, Peru.

Kirkpatrick (SFS ’15) said he would have “strongly preferred” a cubicle, but will make do in the salt fields.

After four years of walking, ubering, and flying a single-seater Cessna reconnaissance aircraft, Kirkpatrick discovered what he says is “the perfect spot” in South Central Peru.

Kirkpatrick said the sacred valley of the Incas was not his first choice, but a necessary option as all of the Lau 4 cubicles are occupied.

“Sitting amongst the supersaturated salt crystals finally just helped me focus on my econ problem set.”

But no study space is without flaw, including the Salt Ponds of Maras.

“It would be the perfect study spot if the Incan shaman wasn’t always hogging the only outlet.” He added, “Sometimes the Quecha elders start doing chants on the mountain above me and that can be distracting but other than that I love this study space.”

When the Healey Family Student Center was built Kirkpatrick thought he was “for sure saved,” but upon looking for a study space there he found each room had a single person in it studying alone and had to continue his trek through South America for a study spot.

When asked if it can get lonely to fly out to Peru to study, Henry remarked, “Sometimes the desolate salt fields can be a bit depressing and desolate, but it’s probably the same as Lau anyway. Also the Wi-Fi is a lot better here.”