Fall is, unequivocally, the best season to be on a college campus. While fall leads to the coming of winter, meaning the world reaches a sleepy stasis, and spring dignifies a new beginning, fall is the new beginning to me. Fall represents not only the start of classes but the beginning of my social life yet again. I get to both enjoy the beauty of Arcadia University’s campus and the company of my peers.
Though Arcadia University is tucked into the suburbs – the sleepy town of Glenside, bordering Philadelphia – it has plenty of beautiful nature to enjoy, so long as you’re looking in the right place. I suggest wherever you are, to find a nice secluded place to enjoy the Autumn air. I’ve found a few of these places myself. One such place is Easton pond, a secluded pond next to Easton Hall that’s shrouded by trees and surrounded by benches. It truly serves as a whimsical and special break from the hustle and bustle of campus life. I’d walk from the castle-like, winding halls of Murphy Hall down to the pond, where I’d sit on the ledge with a few friends.
Another space I value dear is a wooded area beyond the Taylor Hall parking lot that students affectionately refer to as the “Pit.” A winding creek flows through trees dropping leaves of all colors. Moss covers their old stumps and bugs crawl in between their bark. It always surprises me how far removed this area of campus seems from the rest of it. Sure, it borders the parking lot and the main road, but especially in Autumn with the leaves beautifully cascading into the reflective pond, it’s secluded and magical.
My on-campus apartment also has the warm and comfortable aura of the seasonn. I can look through the sliding glass doors towards the patio, which reveals the parking lot where people pass through to get to class. Mushrooms grow on the base of the tree closest to my patio and acorns, to my chagrin, fall atop my car.
I can especially feel the new beginnings in the air in class. It’s still a little strange seeing everyone in masks and sometimes being unable to recognize my friends and classmates, but it’s nice to be present. Especially when I can see everyone clearly enjoying the fall weather, and making the most of sitting in a classroom for several hours.
It can be easy to get caught up in the whirlwind that is college. Starting back up again after being away for so long is intimidating. So, for your mental health’s sake, I recommend taking control of what you can. Appreciate the weather. Your classes. Whatever joy you have this season. And don’t forget to fiind your place. It might be closer than you think.