October is my favorite month on campus. Finally settled in after what always feels like a whirlwind first couple of weeks at the start of every school year, the month promises colorful landscapes, home football or soccer games and, as two Culture writers note, delicious fall flavors at Café J.

The News section aims to educate readers on timely issues relevant to university students and their parents. Between federal funding cuts to American universities and the ways immigration is tangibly impacting college students, we are not in the business of taking it easy on you. Maybe turn on a Disney Channel Halloween movie for that familiar comfort and easygoing vibe while you read.

Speaking of which, for myself and the other seniors who plan to spend their midterm break relaxing in the Smoky Mountains by the TV and “relaxing” in Nashville afterward, this issue grapples with the storied culture of country music fandom. Love ‘em or hate ‘em, it’s hard to argue with a sold-out Zach Bryan concert. Funnily enough, that’s the same argument I use against my friends who go to Ohio State for why Notre Dame football games are superior.

It’s at this point in our issue that I start tearing up, as freshman Perspectives writers share testimonials of their firsts, from move-in to cult-favorite, first-year courses like “God and the Good Life.” Let me just say, this year’s freshman class is way more put-together than I or my friends ever were.

If you’re flying home for fall break, take a peek at one Opinion writer’s thoughts on unspoken airplane etiquette. The South Bend airport nearly guarantees that you will know someone on your flight, so proceed with caution. Scholastic writers have eyes and ears everywhere, and WILL expose any malfeasance. On an entirely unrelated note, if you happen to see an off-campus senior wearing Scholastic merch camped outside of Farley Hall … just keep walking!

Well, we cover a great deal in this issue. So whether you’re here to reminisce over your own falls spent on campus, or you just need to look productive while avoiding your homework … “fall” in love with these stories or “leaf” knowing something new. (Too much?)

Welcome to October,
Tess Reinhart