Thompson Hall: The Heart of UMass Amherst

Thompson Hall at a Glance

• Location: UMass Amherst, 631 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01003
• Opened: 1997
• Cost: $40 million
• Size: 317,700 square feet
• Usage: Classroom, office, and research space for the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

A Rich History of Scholarship

Thompson Hall was designed as the centerpiece of the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences at UMass Amherst. The building was named in honor of Lonnie Thompson, a renowned glaciologist and professor at the university. Thompson’s research on ice cores from Greenland has provided invaluable insights into past climate change.

Since its opening in 1997, Thompson Hall has played a pivotal role in UMass Amherst’s academic mission. The building houses a diverse range of classrooms, offices, and research facilities that support the college’s students, faculty, and staff.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Thompson Hall is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and facilities, including:

• Spacious classrooms: The building features a variety of classroom sizes, from small seminar rooms to large lecture halls with tiered seating.
• Modern research labs: Thompson Hall houses laboratories for research in psychology, sociology, economics, anthropology, and other social and behavioral sciences.
• Advanced computing facilities: The building provides access to high-performance computing resources for data analysis and modeling.
• Collaborative spaces: Thompson Hall includes common areas and meeting rooms that foster collaboration among students and researchers.

A Vibrant Intellectual Community

Thompson Hall is more than just a building; it is a vibrant intellectual community. The building is home to a diverse group of students, faculty, and staff who are engaged in cutting-edge research and scholarship.

Students in the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences benefit from a wide range of opportunities for academic exploration and growth. They can participate in research projects, attend guest lectures, and engage in extracurricular activities that complement their coursework.

Research Hub

Thompson Hall serves as a hub for research at UMass Amherst. The building houses the Social and Behavioral Research Institute (SBRI), which supports a wide range of research initiatives across the social and behavioral sciences. SBRI provides funding, resources, and mentorship to researchers who are investigating critical social issues, such as poverty, inequality, and environmental sustainability.

According to a recent report by the National Science Foundation, UMass Amherst ranks among the top 100 research universities in the United States. Thompson Hall plays a significant role in the university’s research enterprise by providing the infrastructure and support necessary for groundbreaking discoveries.

Sustainability and Green Building

Thompson Hall was designed and constructed to meet high standards of sustainability. The building features energy-efficient lighting, heating, and cooling systems. It also incorporates recycled and sustainable materials in its construction.

In recognition of its environmental performance, Thompson Hall has been awarded a LEED Silver certification by the U.S. Green Building Council. LEED certification demonstrates the building’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact and creating a healthy and sustainable indoor environment.

Tips and Tricks

• Reserve classrooms in advance: Classrooms in Thompson Hall can be reserved online or through the Registrar’s Office. It’s advisable to book early, especially during peak times.
• Utilize study spaces: Thompson Hall offers a variety of study spaces, including quiet study rooms and collaborative workspaces. Take advantage of these spaces to enhance your academic performance.
• Attend events: Thompson Hall hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including guest lectures, workshops, and conferences. Check the event calendar regularly to stay informed about upcoming opportunities.
• Get involved in research: If you’re interested in research, reach out to faculty members in your field of interest. Thompson Hall houses numerous research labs that provide opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students to participate in cutting-edge research projects.
• Take advantage of career services: The College of Social and Behavioral Sciences Career Center provides career counseling, resume writing assistance, and job search support. Utilize these services to prepare for your future career.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t procrastinate: Don’t wait until the last minute to book classrooms or study spaces. Plan ahead to avoid disappointment.
• Don’t disrupt others: Be respectful of others who are studying or working in the building. Keep your noise level down and avoid distracting others.
• Don’t leave valuables unattended: Thompson Hall is a public building, so don’t leave valuables unattended. Lock your belongings in a secure place when you’re away from your desk.
• Don’t eat or drink in classrooms: Eating or drinking is not permitted in classrooms. Keep food and beverages outside of the classroom doors.
• Don’t smoke: Smoking is not allowed anywhere in Thompson Hall.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Thompson Hall open to the public?
   Yes, Thompson Hall is open to the public during regular business hours. The building is accessible for tours and events.

2. What is the best way to get to Thompson Hall?
   Thompson Hall is located on North Pleasant Street, directly across from the Campus Center. It is accessible by foot, bicycle, or public transportation.

3. Where can I find parking near Thompson Hall?
   There are several parking lots located near Thompson Hall. Visitors can purchase a daily or hourly parking permit from the Parking Services office.

4. What kind of research is conducted in Thompson Hall?
   Thompson Hall houses research labs for a variety of social and behavioral science disciplines, including psychology, sociology, economics, and anthropology. Researchers in these labs investigate topics such as human behavior, social inequality, economic development, and environmental sustainability.

5. Is there a food court in Thompson Hall?
   No, there is no food court in Thompson Hall. However, there are several dining options located nearby, including the Campus Center Food Court and the Hampshire Dining Commons.

6. What are the hours of operation for Thompson Hall?
   Thompson Hall is typically open from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. The building may be open during extended hours for special events or during exam periods.

Conclusion

Thompson Hall is a vital hub of academic activity at UMass Amherst. The building provides a vibrant and supportive environment for students, faculty, and staff to engage in scholarship, research, and intellectual exploration. Thompson Hall is a testament to the university’s commitment to excellence in teaching and research.