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The Changing of Seasons At HWS: A Metaphor for College Life

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at HWS chapter.

One of the best things about living in Upstate New York is the opportunity to experience all that nature has to offer in terms of weather! From snowy winters to blazing hot summers, we can never be quite sure what to expect from Mother Nature.What you may not realize though, is how closely the changing of seasons can symbolize the ups and downs of college living… 

Here is a rough overview of what the seasons of Geneva, NY look like in terms of OUR lives:

FALL

Aka back to school season!!! Get ready to pack up all of your books and head back up to college for the new year.

The Finger Lakes area is one of the most beautiful places to be during Autumn. The leaves are changing, and so are we… literally. As we emerge from the throes of an Indian summer with our tanned skin and fresh perspective for the year, we cannot wait to get back in the groove of things.

With new classes, new friends, and new notebooks, we are sad to see summer go but so excited to see what the year brings. The beginning of a new school year holds many new opportunities: exciting clubs, unforgettable nights with friends, declaration of majors (maybe), and important life lessons. The one thing to remember is that all of this change is a good thing, so relax, and go with it, and try to have fun!

WINTER

Say goodbye to apple cider and hello to hot chocolate! As winter approaches you are probably all settled in by now, however, you are most likely bogged down with reading and assignments as finals are approaching. With the first snowfall, it will probably really start to sink in, that this is your home. 

Students usually agree that winter is a time that you may find yourself in a bit of a slump between meeting deadlines, choosing classes for NEXT semester, and trying to maintain somewhat of a social life. It is important to just take a deep breath, and stay focused. Geneva usually experiences pretty heavy snowfall and icy climates, so don’t feel bad that you are stuck inside studying (or watching Netflix), everyone else is too.

And just when you think you’ve seen the last of the snow…

…there’s always that one last storm. 

And when you’re certain that torturous 10 page papers are a thing of the past…  

…there’s always that one professor.

SPRING

As the chilly temperatures come to an end and and the flowers begin to blossom, we will be in the midst of our spring semester. As we return from break with a clear head and an ambitious attitude, green grass and clear skies will also be returning (slowly, but I promise they will come).

So breathe in the fresh air and get ready to finish the year strong!

Oh, and just think of finals like a bad storm that comes and goes.

SUMMER

The sun is out and so is school! Even though it seemed like the clouds were following us at times, the sun never fails to shine in the end. So after a year of ups and downs, sunshine and rain, treat yourself to a fabulous vacation, take that internship, lay in the sun, and do what makes you happy, you’ve earned it!

Emma is a first-year student at Hobart & William Smith Colleges (HWS).  Born in California, she moved to New York at an early age, however, she tries to stay in touch with all things LA in the hopes of moving back to the West Coast after college.  Although her major has yet to be decided, her biggest dreams include filmmaking, writing, fashion/beauty, and psychology.  When Emma is not out running, participating in social media, or hanging out with friends, you could most likely find her flipping through a Marie-Claire and listening to Lana Del Rey.  She admires those who defy the gender-based constraints of society, achieve the unexpected, and have a knack for accessories; such figures include Elle Woods, Carrie Bradshaw, and her mom.  Emma is most excited about being a part of the HWS chapter of Her Campus because she will be able to contribute her individual efforts to something greater as a whole.