As homecoming season approaches and the peak of fall is near, the Sunshine State hasn’t been so sunny. With recent temperatures making everyday sweater weather, this brings up the significant role weather plays in our daily lives.
The incoming low temperatures affect moods, behaviors and overall well-being. Students on the campus of Florida A&M University have a variety of differing feelings about the recent change.
It’s no coincidence that weather conditions have an impact on one’s emotions. Students, in particular, are most vulnerable to these effects as they juggle countless academic and personal responsibilities.
Junior business administration student Bryce White says the weather takes a toll on his moods.
“I do think I am affected by the weather. Sunny weather usually keeps me in good spirits, just enjoying the stillness of the clear skies. When it rains, or it’s windy, I usually can’t focus because of the distractions in the rain and wind, and being cold takes too much energy out of me trying to maintain my body temperature,” White said.
White said that the current cold weather is not No. 1 on his radar and emphasized its influence on his choice of going to school in the South.
“Currently, I am not a fan of the weather changing; I don’t like cold weather at all, another reason why I chose to go to school in Florida. The cold weather is going to make me want to stay inside more,” White said.
In turn to the distaste in the change of weather, first-year business administration student Hudson Taylor looks forward to the cooler weather and walks to class in his favorite season.
“I am excited about the weather changing because I hated walking uphill in the heat to get to my classes I’d much rather walk uphill in the cold, so I’m exhausted so quickly,” Taylor said. “Fall weather is decently my favorite like where you are cold but not freezing warm but not hot and you can wear a sweater in the morning and not be drenched in sweat from wearing it at the end of the day.”
Though he loves it, Taylor also agrees it affects his everyday mood and productivity.
“When I see that it’s a cloudy day outside and it’s cold, I stand to feel unmotivated and unengaged with my school,” Taylor said.
Consequently, cold weather doesn’t only bring a great deal of emotions but also fun festivities, holidays and the desire to dress to impress. Third-year public relations student Loryn Cater is excited for the change in seasons.
“I like when it gets cold to wear certain jackets and styles of clothing. Cold weather is also football season, I look forward to the fair, homecoming, and Thanksgiving,” Carter said.
Overall, the impact of weather highlights the need for student flexibility, resilience and strategies to maintain high academic and emotional health.