“There’s nothing quite like autumn in New York. But it’s not only the leaves that change. Something in the air brings out the true colors in everyone.” – Gossip Girl

As students are arriving back to class, they also welcome autumn into their arms. The transition from summer to fall brings the return of a certain routine to adapt to the new school year. During the fall season, the cooler temperatures can impact students’ energy levels and focus. Some students might find the crisp air and beautiful fall colors invigorating, helping them to concentrate, while others might feel less motivated to be productive. It can be harder to stay awake. The changing weather can influence students’ productivity at school and with homework.

The question is: how do we change as people during the seasons?

The shorter days, longer nights, and cold weather can lead to feelings of lethargy and the yearn to stay inside all the time. Mrs. Herskovitz, an English teacher at Forest Hills High School, shares her experience about students and their reactions to the change in weather. “The incentive is to not miss class by giving reading quizzes at the beginning of the class period or assignments that they know are going to be collected and graded as quizzes.” 

Herskovitz always tries her best to help her students pass her class and gives them many opportunities. “I try everything and anything to get them to come. Incentives, extra points but sometimes it doesn’t work.” She strives to keep students active during this sudden change in environment. 

Other students have a different take on this. Kaelin Gofman, a sophomore at Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music and Art and Performing Arts, believes “either people have changed or something happened to them over the summer.” 

We tend to see the noticeable changes of people during the course of the summer when we come back to school in the fall. “I don’t know if I necessarily believe it’s because of autumn, but I have noticed that during the fall, people do me dirty the most,” Kaelin says.  

Kaelin mentions the “October theory,” an internet phenomenon mainly on the social media platform, TikTok. This theory proposes that events and experiences taking place in the month of October have a significant impact on relationships. 

Many believe that October is a month of change and transition. One can associate October with feelings of nostalgia and desire for deeper connections. The juxtaposition of the “October theory” and  “break-up season,”  both internet ideologies, usually fall around the same time during the fall and holiday season.

Along with the beautiful fall foliage, unfortunately, comes allergy and flu season. Despite the runny noses and sick days, the problems of the summer, like mosquito bites and the scorching heat are nuisances of the past. 

The changing of the leaves and the excitement of the holiday season approaching is an obvious benefit. “During the summer I kind of lay around all day, I don’t really do much but during the fall I feel inclined to be an academic weapon,” shares Ava Quick, freshman at FHHS. “When it’s colder then I’m locked in. I’m only focused on school, and I’m in a better mood because of Christmas. All the best holidays are coming up!”  

According to Senior Editor of MindEdge Learning, Wendy Nuttelman, picking up a new novel, learning a new language, and even studying a new skill can be much simpler in the winter time. Her article, titled “The Time of the Season for Learning,” justifies the ways the seasonal transition can be beneficial for some.

The shorter days and colder temperatures of winter might challenge our focus and drive, yet also offers opportunities for planning and reflection. 

Academically, the changing seasons can impact study habits, classroom dynamics, and even the types of activities and projects that are feasible. Summer breaks provide a chance for rest and experiential learning, while the fall semester often marks a time of new beginnings and fresh academic pursuits. Each season, with its unique characteristics, plays a role in shaping our experiences and development.

Ultimately, the nature of the seasons reminds us of the importance of adaptability and resilience. Embracing these changes can help us grow, learn, and thrive in both our personal lives and academic endeavors.