Ways to Enjoy Fall At School
By Hailey Cernuto
Most east-coasters would agree that this time of year is really special. The leaves change color, the air starts to get crisp, you can wear a sweater to class without sweating, and pumpkin spice is everywhere.
The more I grow up, the more difficulty I have trying to find ways to enjoy this time of year. I haven’t jumped into a pile of leaves or gone Trick-or-Treating in years, I have yet to make it to a pumpkin patch, and I didn’t get to enjoy my dad’s roasted pumpkin seeds over fall break. In other words, I feel like I’m missing out on a lot of the things I used to love doing. But I’ve discovered new ways to make the most peak-Autumn, and they can all be done here at school!
1. Take the long way to class
With the changing weather, Fall presents a short window of time where it can be a bit chilly, but the sun shines and counteracts the cold. For me, this is the best type of weather. I try to take advantage of this brief period by extending my daily walks on campus. I try to leave for class a little early to spend a few extra minutes in this perfect weather.
2. Embrace the coming of sweater weather
Like I said, this time of year is perfect because it’s not too hot and not too cold, meaning its the ideal time of year to wear a thick sweater, or light sweater and light jacket with jeans and be totally comfortable. I love taking advantage of fall fashion too by dressing in warm colors - browns, reds, and rust-colored clothes are a must.
3. Take advantage of ALL the fall flavors
I’m down to walk to Starbucks any time of year, but especially right now. Usually a venti iced coffee with almond milk is my go-to order, but from the beginning of October to the middle of November, I stay loyal to the grande pumpkin spice latte (hot or cold depending on how I’m feeling). If coffee isn’t your thing, Playa Bowls has seasonal smoothies and smoothie bowls (featuring pumpkin spice and apple cinnamon flavors), and I highly recommend trying Holy Grounds’s pumpkin muffins.
4. Have a cozy night in for a movie marathon
Nothing screams fall like a night with friends, popcorn, and hours of movies. Even though Halloween is over, it’s still so fun to watch Halloween movies. My favorites are Hocus Pocus, Monster House, Halloween Town, and probably any scary movie if I’m feeling brave.
5. Exercise outside
Like taking the long way to class, one of the best ways to take advantage of the season is to spend as much time outside as you can. It could be fun to ditch Davis for a bit to make the most of the weather. Fortunately, Villanova is located in a safe area, meaning it is really popular among cardio lovers to run outside around campus. There are tons of cute neighborhoods to run or walk through, enjoy the outdoors, and see families’ fall decorations!
Happy November 1st! Now that Halloween has come and gone, ~spooky season~ has officially come to a close, and for some this may mean it's time to gear up for the holiday season.
However, before we start thinking about the Christmas decorations we’re going to bring back from Thanksgiving break, I think we should remind ourselves that it’s still Fall and we should enjoy it!