Even though it may not feel like it, fall is upon us. Now is the time to start embracing all of the great things that fall brings.

1. Seasonal Drinks

This is one of my personal favorite things about fall. All of the coffee shops around town come out with their ever-so-popular seasonal beverages. Some of the best ones are Chaider (chai and cider) from LJ's, caramel apple cider from JP's or Cranes, and the always classic pumpkin spice latte and salted caramel mocha from Starbucks.

2. Cold Weather = Sweater Weather

Haul out the leggings, boots, oversized sweaters, and scarves, because it is finally cold enough to wear them!

3. Apple Picking

A great activity to do on the weekend! Head over to Crane's Apple Orchard in Fenneville and spend the afternoon hanging out and picking delicious apples. After you finish picking more apples than you'll probably eat, head over to the barn for donuts and hot apple cider. It's the perfect way to end the day.

4. The Pull

For those of you who don't know what The Pull is, it is a very intense tug-of-war between the freshman class (Odd Year) and the sophomore class (Even Year). The pullers and moral girls train for three weeks to get ready for this insane contest that takes place in September. They get into pits and pull the rope for hours. It's crazy to watch and a great Hope College tradition.

5. Nykerk

Another awesome Hope College tradition. The Nykerk Cup competition is another contest between the freshman class and sophomore class. It has three parts—song, play, and oration—and you can try out for any of them! The night of the competition, both Even Year and Odd Year gather in the Devos Fieldhouse and compete for the coveted Nykerk Cup. It is not only fun to be a part of but it's also really fun to watch!

6. Halloween

Who doesn't love Halloween? It's so fun to see people around campus dressed up and having a good time! Plus, free candy!

7. Dorms are Cold

One of the best feelings in the world is being able to snuggle up in a bunch of blankets. This is hard to do when the dorms feel like they're 90 degrees. Don't worry though, with fall coming, cooler weather is on the way!

8. ABC Family's 13 Nights of Halloween

One of the best things about fall is being able to watch your favorite Halloween movies. It's nice to come back from a long day of classes and just chill. 13 Nights of Halloween starts Oct. 19 and will be playing classics, like "Hocus Pocus," "Casper," and my personal favorite, "The Nightmare Before Christmas." Plus, Disney Channel usually plays the "Halloweentown" movies! Bring on the nostalgia!

9. Fall Break

You've survived five weeks of classes, Hope College—here, have a break. No class? I think everyone will be grateful for that.

10. Homecoming

Homecoming weekend is so much fun! A bunch of alumni come back and there are a bunch of events going on around campus and downtown! My favorite is the Homecoming Hoedown at Teusink's Pony Farm. There's cider, s'mores, hay rides, and line dancing.

Even though it's about 80 degrees outside, don't worry, fall is on its way and it's coming in full force.