Crisp air flows across Tiffany Loop, leaving acorns, twigs and autumn leaves scattered upon the ground. A mural of fall foliage unfolds as the fall season arrives.
The temperature transitioning months are perfect for pastimes like haunted houses, hayrides and pumpkin-carving contests. Apple picking, collecting colorful leaves and keeping cozy in the chilly autumn air are essentials in experiencing all the season has to offer.
And of course, wholesome meals in cozy homes during rainy days make this time of year all the more loveable.
Elena Queen, a second year business administration major, finds food to be a highlight because of the family memories she has connected to them.
“I enjoy making the dinner, Thanksgiving dinner specifically and having the whole family get together. I love when my sister makes really good mac n’ cheese,” Queen said. “In fact it’s so good we have it twice; we have it during Thanksgiving and Christmas.”
Flavorful recipes can also bring connection. Appetizing dishes full of spices and surprises are cooked in homes around the globe during the cooler months.
Second year physiology major, Chantli Adams, anticipates family recipes when home.
“My family makes adobo, it’s like Filipino food. It’s not just specifically fall but we mostly eat it then. But we definitely have it every Thanksgiving,” Adams said.
Certain autumn dishes make their name during the holiday. Many popular foods have tempting flavors, from roasted vegetables to warm apple pie; a food fit for any person can be found in the harvest season. Furthermore, specific smells from the season give it its unique characteristics.
“A really good fall scent that I just can’t get enough of is apple cinnamon,” Queen said. “It’s a scent I have loved since my early childhood and brings back memories of visiting my grandma’s house.”
Along with the food comes the pastimes of the season. Navigating a corn maze, picking apples or getting lost in the woods are all popular uses of time. Students also enjoy the scenery of fall and spending time with friends.
“Aside from staying indoors, it is also fun to be out in Tiffany Loop to play volleyball and have a picnic when the weather is nice,” Adams said.
Students decorate for the fall and for holidays like Halloween, filling the halls with Trader Joe’s miniature pumpkins. Floor events and decorations continue to add to the festivities. The fall season brings out food and entertainment fit for anyone. Taking advantage and experiencing the season is essential.
“I might meet with a friend, go to a nearby bakery and get coffee while we catch up with any recent happenings,” Queen said. “I would even enjoy doing something as simple as taking a walk around campus. I [also] enjoy stargazing during this time of year.”
As birds migrate south, and the leaves change colors, nature transforms dramatically during autumn. The vast adjustments week to week create exciting and unpredictable experiences.
With all the shifts of the season, Queen likes the surprise of new weather each day.
“The weather isn’t too hot or too cold and the types of bugs that usually deter me from being outside too long aren’t around,” Queen said.
For students like Camila Cruz, a second year international business major, the surprising weather makes the season enjoyable.
“You know how everyone says fall is a bit depressing because of the weather?” Cruz said. “I think it’s fine, I like it and feel energized by it.”
