Photo Credit: Claire Cecil

One of George Mason University’s study spots, The Ridge, recently reopened its doors to students for the semester and announced some major changes to the space’s purposes.

According to the Housing and Residence Life website, the Ridge will no longer be used for only studying. It is currently transitioning into an RA resource center and will also be used to hold housing programs.

“This year the Ridge will also house a central resource space for our student staff as well as being a student lounge for Mason students and a programming space for housing sponsored events,” the website stated.

“There are other options, and George Mason is really looking at other options for late night studying. There are still a lot of conversations going on,” said Emilie Dubert, the associate director of Off-Campus Student Programs and Services.

The changes could potentially impact both on and off campus students that use the space for late night studying, however Dubert believes it is too soon to tell.

“We hope this does not negatively impact commuting students, and we believe other spaces can be utilized as well as for changes in the future,” Dubert said.

The Ridge will be open on Monday-Friday from 10 a.m.-7 a.m., closed Saturday, and Sunday 4 p.m.-7 a.m.

While it is still unsure how frequently the Housing and Residence Life will be using The Ridge, Mason is looking into more alternatives.