The start of the 2023 to 2024 school year comes with an adjustment period; not just for new classes, classmates, and teachers, but also a seasonal change from summer to fall. It may be difficult to leave the sun and the memories from summer break behind, but autumn brings a promise of new beginnings, opportunities to meet new people, and an assortment of old and new activities.
On top of giving students a much deserved break, summer often provides various comforts. Rigzin Gyaltsen, a freshman, said, “Summer gives more opportunities to do things outside of your house.” Day trips to the beach, enjoying the warm weather, and having a flexible schedule are just a few of the luxuries of the summertime shared by Berkeley High School students.
“The sun is really nice when you just feel it on your skin. I feel warm and like I could just go to the beach,” said Nova Duchateau, a BHS junior. Duchateau also added that he’ll miss being able to wake up in the morning to sunlight peeking through his window.
In addition, he feels that it’s nice to be able to have the choice of simple outfits during summer. “Being able to go outside with a t-shirt or a tank top and shorts … is nice.” He continued that it may not look fashionable, but it’s a good option to have available.
Senior Arunima Stoller is excited for fall, and the “baking … sweaters … (and) drinks” that it brings. The Bay Area is known for not having vast seasonal changes, but there is definitely a noticeable shift in nature and the cooler climate as autumn approaches.
“I like going on little hikes in Tilden. A lot of the trees don’t change color, but some of the trees do, so I feel like going to see the trees that do change color is always a cute little activity,” said Stoller. The cold weather also has them excited for “... hanging out and cooking dinner (with friends), as opposed to going on a trip or a big excursion. I kind of appreciate (the former) more because then I get to spend more quality time with them.”
The feel of fall is distinct and gives students an opportunity to reset their balance. Ali Forbush, a sophomore in Berkeley International High School said, “I really enjoy the fall and I like the energy it has. As fall comes in, everybody kind of starts to settle into school and just the energy feels really positive.”
Students get to know their daily routes to classes, and they find their comfortable balance between homework and extracurriculars, as day to day routines begin.
Stoller felt similarly, sharing, “I feel like for me, fall is more of a vibe than a weather … I feel like everyone kind of slows down after summer and it's a lot more of a chiller climate.”
Layering clothing is a year round tendency for those worried about temperature changes, but when fall comes around, people can show off their sweatshirts and sweaters all day long. “I would confidently say I prefer cold weather. I love wearing sweatshirts. I love just being able to feel comfortable,” said Forbush.
The start of fall marks a time of anticipation for the coming season and wistfulness for what is past, but regardless, the seasons will turn again.