Campus Chronicles: Spring vs. Fall at RIT from an International Perspective

Embracing Change: My Journey from Mumbai to Rochester

When I first set foot on the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) campus, it was the middle of spring, a season that holds a different meaning here than it does back in my hometown of Mumbai. Having lived my entire life in a bustling city with no experience of snow, moving to a place where winter is a significant part of life was an adventure, to say the least.

A New Beginning in a Snowy World

Coming from a place where the sun shines almost year-round and the temperature rarely dips below 20°C (68°F), the thought of living in a snow-covered city was both exciting and intimidating. The first thing on my to-do list after arriving in Rochester was to equip myself with proper winter gear. Finding the perfect jacket and shoes became my priority, as I knew these would be my best friends in the months to come.

As days turned into weeks, I slowly began to adapt to the chilly weather. The initial shock of stepping out into freezing temperatures gave way to a sense of comfort as I learned to navigate my new environment. I started to appreciate the unique beauty of a snowy campus—the serene, white-covered grounds and the crisp air that greeted me each morning. It was a feeling that I had never experienced before, and I found myself cherishing these moments of quiet reflection amidst the snow.

The Warmth of Academic Challenges

Being a computer science major, my schedule quickly became filled with coursework, projects, and exams. As the semester progressed, the intensity of my studies provided a different kind of warmth—one that made the cold outside seem almost insignificant. The "heat" of academics, as I like to call it, kept me engaged and focused, leaving little time to dwell on the freezing temperatures outside.

Comparing Seasons: Spring vs. Fall

As spring gave way to summer and eventually fall, I began to notice the differences between the seasons at RIT. Fall, in particular, brought a sense of vibrancy to the campus. Unlike the quieter spring semester, fall was bustling with activity. More students were out and about, enjoying the mild weather and the various events that marked the beginning of a new academic year.

Tourist spots around Rochester also became more accessible, allowing me to explore the city and its surroundings more freely. However, the fall weather was unpredictable at times—mornings could be warm, almost reminiscent of the Mumbai heat, while evenings turned cool, requiring layers to stay comfortable.

Finding a Home Away from Home

After spending eight months in the United States, RIT has started to feel like home. The initial challenges of adapting to a new country, climate, and academic environment have given way to a sense of belonging. I’ve come to appreciate both the coziness of spring and the warmth of fall, each offering its own unique experiences.

Looking back, the journey from Mumbai to Rochester has been one of growth and discovery. I’ve learned to embrace the changes, both big and small, and to find joy in the new experiences that each season brings. Whether it’s the quiet beauty of a snowy spring morning or the lively atmosphere of a fall afternoon, RIT has become a place where I feel at ease—a place that I can now proudly call home.