Whether you're an incoming freshman, a returning undergrad, or proud alumni of University of Oregon, we can all agree that fall term is the best term as a student. There is no better feeling than returning to Eugene excited for all the fun that is ahead of you. Fall term (and college in general) goes by fast, so remember to take advantage of the many reasons why fall term at Oregon is the absolute best.
1. The vibe on campus
Unlike any other term, the vibe on campus is buzzing with energy from the minute you get to Eugene. As a freshman, there is no more exciting/weird/terrifying feeling than moving into the dorms, surrounded by strangers that you will be living with and sharing a bathroom with.
For returning sophomores, juniors and seniors who cannot WAIT to see their friends they haven't seen in three months, or move into their new greek houses or apartments, arriving at school in the fall is almost as exciting as Christmas.
2. Syllabus week
The first week of classes (or Week 1) is always somewhat of a tease. Us quarter system kids would LOVE for there to actually be an entire week of classes dedicated to going over the syllabus when in reality our teachers review the syllabus for the first 20 minutes of class and then move on to lecture. This doesn't mean we don't treat it like a semester school and go out every night for the entire week. The term 'rallying' takes a whole new meaning.
3. Football
I mean, do you even go to Oregon if you don't attend the football games? We LOVE our ducks, and rain or shine game days are always the best days. Tailgating, the walks to Autzen, cheering in the student section and singing your lungs out to "I Left My Heart in Oregon" are only a few of the reasons why duck games will forever be some of everyone's favorite college memories.
4. Fall formal recruitment
Fall recruitment is an opportunity to learn more about the FSL organization and meet new people just the first couple weeks of school. Whether or not you think Greek life is for you, it can provide incredible friendships, experiences, and opportunities that make college greater than you had ever imagined it could be.
5. Halloweekend
Although many colleges across the country are known for going crazy for Halloween weekend every year, Oregon is definitely no different. Who wouldn't want the opportunity to dress up as whatever you want four nights in a row?
6. Thanksgiving break
Unlike winter and spring term, we get 2 days off of school before dead week and finals to go home and eat food with our families.
7. The Civil War
The Civil War deserves it's own reason apart from football because it really is that fun. When the Oregon Ducks play the Oregon State Beavers every year the weekend after Thanksgiving, the rivalry game never disappoints.
8. The weather
Being an out of state student from California, I was terrified and certain that I would hate the rain. The thing about the weather is that even if you aren't a fan of the rain like I was before going to Oregon, something about watching the campus transform and change colors in a matter of weeks.