Fall has to be my favorite of the seasons, and here at Swarthmore, that is especially true. A Swarthmorean fall is something special that brings together all parts of life in the best possible way. The beauty of nature on full display, gatherings of friends, and diving into curiosities and other academic pursuits all manifest in full force in the fall to create an almost magical season here on campus. Currently in the midst of my second fall on campus, I thought it apt to reflect on what exactly makes a Swarthmore fall so special.

First, the beauty of our arboretum campus is at its peak during this season. The bright colors of the leaves, a scattering of fall blooms, and the wonderful additions of pumpkins and other fall decorations across campus bring a burst of life before winter takes hold. Taking a walk around campus or through the Crum Woods, going out into the city or other nearby towns, or just taking a look out your window, the beauty of this area in the fall is breathtaking. Being on a campus that gives such easy access to all of these beautiful locations makes fall all the more magical here.

Furthermore, there seems to be an abundance of social gatherings happening on campus in the fall. Like the influx of colorful leaves falling to the ground, an influx of posters and emails advertising fun fall-themed and non-fall-related events begin to show up this time of year. There are also plenty of things to do in the surrounding areas during this time as well. For example, my friends and I like to go to Linvilla Orchards in Media in the fall for hayrides and other fall fun. During the season of abundance and Thanksgiving, there is no shortage of chances for you to get together with friends and celebrate the new season.

I’ve noticed fall also seems to be the time here on campus when our academic pursuits reach their apex, and we dive deeper into the subjects we are studying. With the changing of the leaves also comes a shift into exciting research projects, learning new concepts, and overall a sense of exploration. This may simply be because the shift to fall happens to coincide with the midpoint of the semester, but I like to think that it’s a shift in our learning that comes with the change of the seasons. Right at the time we begin to bundle up, get cozy, and keep warm, we dive even deeper into our studies, which is perfect for anyone trying to live out their dark academia (or I guess cozy academia?) fantasies.

Fall at Swarthmore is definitely my favorite time of the year. Once the autumn equinox begins to manifest itself on this campus, I’m reminded of the reasons I chose Swarthmore to begin with: the beautiful arboretum campus, the incredible community of friendly and inviting students, faculty, and friends, and the insatiable curiosity we all carry. While these things are of course always present here, they all come out in the most bright, vibrant way in the fall, and I think that’s what makes a Swarthmorean fall so special.