By October, many students start to feel the pressure of the semester build up. Classes hold midterms, and those final projects that were assigned on week one suddenly feel a lot closer than they did the week before.
It can be easy to be sucked into the loop of burnout and self-doubt when life becomes busier and obligations become harder to juggle.
Yet, UNK has a saving grace – its very own campus.
UNK’s campus always looks nice and well cared for. However, it is during the fall months that it becomes clear just how beautiful Kearney is.
The trees that were once green are now painted with hues of yellow, red and orange. The morning air becomes crisp, and mid-afternoon outfit changes are no longer necessary to avoid overheating.
Our colorful campus sets the scene for the autumn months, allowing students to fully enjoy fall during this stage in life.
Many of the buildings, offices and organizations on campus hold different events to take a break from the chaos and celebrate the fall season. Decorations are often placed in different spots around campus, including Starbucks and The Graze in the Nebraskan Student Union.
Homecoming is also a large aspect of fall for college students, as it is one of the largest events for students during the fall semester. Different activities throughout homecoming week, such as Loper football games and the lip-sync battle, are associated with the fall season, and they bring anticipation and excitement to this time of year.
College is one of the only times in life where opportunities for activities and events will be handed out like candy on Halloween.
It takes four years on average for someone to earn a college degree. It is during those four years where students are met with a unique set of circumstances and possibilities. It is important to be present and enjoy the ride, including the little things.
We encourage our fellow Lopers to romanticize the fall season and take notice of the little things on campus.
If you can, walk to class instead of driving to immerse yourself in UNK’s fall aesthetic.
Buy a fall drink from Starbucks and find a cozy spot on campus to spruce up study sessions.
Lopers, most importantly: take time for yourselves this autumn.
Watching a Halloween movie, reading a mystery novel or going to a local pumpkin patch with friends are all festive ways to reduce the stress of school.
Whether it is your first time experiencing fall at UNK or your last, make time for memories and enjoy the festivities before this chapter of life closes.
