We live in a beautiful part of the country, and many think it gets better in autumn. Bright leaves, pumpkin patches, apple picking — New England is in its prime right now. At least for a few more weeks.

But for some, fall is bittersweet. They wish it could stay warm and sunny just a little longer, and don’t quite feel ready to leave summer behind.  Nearly thirty percent of Williston students live abroad, from countries including Australia, Sudan, and Mexico, which don’t really experience a real change in seasons.

In addition, many students hail from states like California and Florida which also boast warmer year-round climates. This means that some Williston students are experiencing their first real New England fall.

So what’s so special about fall in the Northeast?

Many people think fall foods, like the pumpkin iced lattes from Tandem or apple cider donuts are the best part of the season.

Others, including English teacher Gianna Muscari, like the fashion that comes with the colder weather.

“I love wearing sweaters and oversized things, and this is the perfect season to do that,” Muscari, a first-year teacher from Millbrook, New York, said. “I also really like the crisp air and the crunchy leaves. There is nothing more satisfying than stepping on crunchy leaves.”

The school has also made an effort to facilitate lots of different events to make the season fun, and students like junior Sophie Calderon, from São Paolo, Brazil, thinks “Fall deserves all the hype it gets.”

Two weeks ago, there was a projector set up in the quad in front of Mem for a screening of “A Quiet Place,” and the Harvest Fest was held Friday, Oct. 11. It had activities ranging from pumpkin painting to Halloween laser tag.

In addition, trips to go apple picking and go on a haunted hay ride are perfect ways to enjoy a New England autumn. And as the days get shorter, the Wildest Cats are planning several holiday-themed events to make this the spookiest time of the year.

All in all, it’s safe to say that Williston students lead pretty busy lives — but taking some time to enjoy the season is a great way to fight any stress. Get out there and crunch some leaves. Before you know it those colorful leaves will be piles of snow.