Autumn has taken over the University of Connecticut. In what feels like the blink of an eye, we went from running to classes in the sweltering heat, dripping in sweat, to observing trees while feeling a chill in the air. Some may say that the fall foliage is overrated, but in a place like New England the hype is well deserved. Autumn is arguably the most beautiful time of year in Connecticut — at least in my opinion, it is.
So, when exactly is the best time of the season to witness this described beauty? Experts explain that “peak tree season” in Connecticut ranges between Oct. 3 and Nov. 8. However, I would like to disagree with this statement. Although there are no two days alike in fall, which is a beautiful fact in itself, I would say that we are currently on a slow decline down from the peak of tree season.
The unique nature of fall brings as many negative consequences as it does positive. Now, I completely agree that this so-called “peak” does occur at the beginning of October, but the grace period extending well into November is far too large. By November, most trees have already died. Similarly, the reason why I think we have already surpassed the peak of tree season is because each day, we are getting closer to that dead look.
Noticeably today and in the next coming weeks, the obvious discrepancies between trees are highlighted. If you glance over at a group of trees, you might see a beautiful tree filled with orange leaves, followed by one with red — and then a completely bare trunk. Unfortunately, if you are a tree-lover like me, this is quite a depressing sight. The bare tree standing by the fuller ones is a sore reminder of the blandness present in the months to come.
The trees that are still in full bloom are wonderful. Varieties of oranges, reds and yellows can still be found at almost every corner of campus. Although, that one bare tree standing outside the Student Union adds a sort of sadness to the scene. Personally, I would rather some of the trees remain unchanged and green, surrounded by those that have only begun to change, which typically fosters festive feelings in mid-September. However, something about the deadness of one tree surrounded by the beauty of others sparks an unsettling feeling.
This is not to say that you cannot still enjoy the foliage around you! Get out and witness autumn in New England before it is too late, and if you are a student at UConn, I am sure you already have. Next time you are walking to class, take a moment to observe the trees, smell the leaves and compare how quickly they have changed the following day.
If you are saying to yourself: “Damn, she cares way too much about trees,” then take this article as a piece of advice rather than what it is literally saying. Things around you change just as quickly as the leaves are falling off the trees, so take control of your opportunities while you still can. Enjoy what is around you while it is still there, and most importantly, gaze at the trees and be reminded of the forces that are so much larger than you.