Ah, college, it can be the best of times or the worst of times. College life is a rollercoaster in every sense. Sometimes, you’re on top of the world, with killer grades, a bomb ass social life, and you feel like your future is laid out in front of you. Other times, however, it seems like your professors are out to get you, there’s so much drama in your personal life that it feels like an episode of Game of Thrones, and your future is as murky as the water in the retention ponds on East Campus. On the latter type of days, sometimes you just need to take a moment for yourself and relieve some stress via a good old crying session. However, having a full-blown emotional outburst, so here are a few of the best places to cry at James Madison University.

1. In a Cubicle Desk at Carrier or ECL

Cubicle desks at one of JMU’s two libraries are a classic choice for the emotionally vulnerable. These desks are ideal for a person who isn’t extremely upset, and who just needs to silently shed a few tears and move on with their day. It’s a great option if you need to have a small crying session, but also need to get things done, as the academic atmosphere could help motivate you to pick up the pieces and do some reading or homework. Plus, a nice Frappuccino from Starbucks always makes things at least a little sweeter.

2. In the Back Row of a Classroom During a Lecture

Sometimes, you don’t have the luxury of emotionally breaking down during your free time. If your professor takes attendance, or the lecture is going to cover important material, sitting in the back of the room and shedding a few tears is a viable option. Of course, this only works if it is going to be a brief, quiet cry, with a just a few tears and perhaps a small sniffle or two. I would recommend sitting in a seat that is close to a door, just in case you need to make a quick escape during a momentary emotional outburst.

3. At the Astronomy Park/Amphitheater on East Campus

While the outdoor areas of East Campus has some incredible views and a relaxed, open atmosphere, the Quad still reigns supreme in the heart of JMU students as THE place for outdoor leisure. As a result, the Astronomy Park and adjoining amphitheater on East Campus do not attract nearly as many students. This is a great place to lay down a blanket and shed some tears over the drama and misalignment of stars in your own life. This area is also close to Festival and E-Hall, giving you easy access to munchies that you can devour as you shed some tears.

4. In a Computer Lab

This option works well for those who have majors that utilize computers often, or for those who have spent inordinate amounts of time typing up papers or doing online research. Depending on how crowded the computer lab is, your crying could be a little louder or more intense, and as long as you aren’t disturbing the other stressed out lab users. And try not to get any of the computer lab equipment wet, as destroying a university-owned computer with your tears will definitely make you cry a little bit harder.

5. During a Presentation at the John C. Wells Planetarium

Darkness? Check. Comfy seat? Check Free to students? Check. Another astronomically related location, this is a great spot for letting out some tears, as you can cry without anyone seeing you do so. Of course, you can’t make too much noise, as people are trying to learn, so be courteous if you do decide to let it all out here. And if you are able to compose yourself before the end of the presentation, you could even learn some interesting facts about astronomy.

6. During a Movie at Grafton

This option is quite similar to the previous one, but it is going to cost a little more money. But, you can see a semi-new movie while crying into your cheap popcorn. And if they’re showing a tear-jerker that has everyone else crying, you’ll blend right in, so there will be no need to feel awkward for being emotional in front of everyone else.

7. While Taking a Stroll Through the Arboretum

The Arboretum is one of JMU’s most beautiful outdoor locations, and here you can cry while waking through a beautiful, natural environment that is full of life. If this isn’t enough to cheer you up, you can listen to some music and take a long walk along one of the many trails here. It’ll almost feel like you’re in a dramatic scene from chick flick. Just don’t trip and make yourself cry even harder.

8. At UREC While Exercising

This is a bold choice for those who are comfortable letting it all out in front of others. Maybe crying a little during a group yoga class can help you achieve inner peace, or maybe you need to cry as you take your frustration out on a punching bag. Either way, when you’re done, at least you can feel a little better, as you got a good workout in during the cry session.

9. At the Rooftop Garden at ISAT

This is an underappreciated, hidden gem on top of ISAT that overlooks JMU and the surrounding areas. It’s a great place to watch the sunset, look at some of the pretty flowers that have been planted, or to let all of those emotions out. You can cry while dramatically staring at the sunset, or if needed, you can let out a dramatic shout or two (just don’t go overboard with it, you don’t want people calling the cops on you or anything).

10. In Your Dorm or Apartment

Lastly, if you want privacy, your dorm room or apartment is the best bet. Grab some junk food, put on your ugliest yet comfiest pajamas, and just let it all out. Got a roommate? Let them know you need some alone time, or if it’s too hard, just start crying in front of them, and they’ll either leave or comfort you. Here, you have the freedom to be as emotional as you want, as long as you aren’t damaging anything or harassing neighbors with your loud crying.

Now that you know of nice, quiet crying spots at JMU, take your tissues with you, let it all out, and feel just a little better.

What do you think are the best places to cry at James Madison University? Comment below!

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