If you would rather work from home, and have no questions about the assignments, what was covered in class or about programming in general feel free to avoid the lab. Just remember, lab times are bound to get crowded just before exams and just before assignments are due. Don't expect to get tons of help when the TA and tutors have 20 other students to help the day before the assignment is due. If you may need help, make an effort to come to your lab section.