One of the most debated topics revolves around which season is actually the best; of course, this is mostly dependent on where you live and whether or not there are four seasons throughout the year. That being said, in the context of Marist students, here is a definitive list of the reasons why autumn is actually the best:

1. The colors

One of Marist's most significant characteristics is its campus, which is right on the Hudson and its coastline. During the fall, this coastline turns bright red, orange, yellow, and everything in between. You'd be surprised (not really) at the amount of Instagram pictures that show up on your feed from the end of September to mid-November.

lake sorrounded by trees Photo by Ricardo Gomez Angel on Unsplash

2. Pumpkin Spice

Call me a "typical white girl," but I love everything pumpkin; having Starbucks on campus and Dunkin down the road, it's safe to say Pumpkin Spice (and other fall-y coffee drinks) are coming in hot. As a result, I will spend around a tuition's worth of my savings at the aforementioned staples of America. I'm not sorry.

cup of coffee Photo by Heidi Kaden on Unsplash

3. Pumpkin/apple picking

You thought your Instagram was flooded with the same pictures before? Just wait until it's apple picking season. Marist is lucky enough to be a short drive from an adorable little farm in New Paltz, where you can get all the staples of autumn in one area: pumpkins, apples, apple cider, apple cider doughnuts, etc..

I'm going to be honest: I look forward to the punny apple picking captions that flood my social media.

Photo by Natalie Grainger on Unsplash

4. The weather

Don't go ahead and tell me that the term "Sweater Weather" doesn't get you excited. Fall weather is chilly enough to wear big, baggy sweaters and comfy pants; who doesn't love being cozy in an oversized hoodie? Bad people...bad people don't.

person in brown knit sweater Photo by Giulia Bertelli on Unsplash

5. Thanksgiving

Now, don't tell me a holiday literally MADE for eating heaps of food isn't something to be excited for. There's such a broad horizon of food offered that it's nearly impossible to be unhappy.

The best part? There's always seconds encouraged. Yes, I'll have four more plates of potatoes, please.

woman in white long sleeve shirt holding wine glass Photo by krakenimages on Unsplash

6. The crunchy leaf sound

Maybe this is just a me-thing, but that crunchy sound that fallen leaves make when you step on them is amazingly satisfying. No, I don't like when the pretty leaves fall from the trees, but if nature takes its course, I'm going to take advantage of it.

Also...don't even get me STARTED on peeling the leaves after they fall..

dried leaves Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash

7. Bonfires

Definitely not something you can just light up in your dorm, but bonfires and smores in this kind of weather are unparalleled. Add some hot chocolate to the mix and you have one of the most overlooked experiences of this fabulous season.

marshmallow Photo by Sidney Pearce on Unsplash

So there you have it people, a definitive list of valid reasons why autumn is the best season. So next time you get into an argument with your friends, pull up this list and win the argument. Thank me later.