This fall semester is going to be intense. As a sophomore, I face the impending “sophomore slump”. I really want to avoid this by making my year more interesting than the last. DC has so many cool events and neighborhoods that I’ve always wanted to visit.

Here’s what I’m looking forward to this fall semester:

1. Going to story slams.Grab a friend and head out to listen to people tell personal stories. There is usually a theme; for instance, the first one I went to had a theme of love and pain. For tickets and more information go to themoth.org.

2. Taking photos at Great Falls on the Potomac.

3. Seeing performances at the 9:30 club.

Fred Armisen will be at the 9:30 club on November 2nd. In the next week Princess, a prince tribute band, will also be at the club.

4. Halloween!

You bet I'll be carving a pumpkin this year. Also I hear Embassy Row trick-or-treating is always fun!

5. Taking a walk around the botanical gardens.

This spot is perfect if you want to learn more about new flora, who doesn’t? If your skin dries out in the winter it will heal you with its humid environment!

6. Visit the new National Museum of African American History & Culture.

Fingers crossed that come November I’ll have the chance to walk through the museum. Visitors ticket are sadly all booked up until late in the semester (when all of the tourists leave).

7. Visit Capitol Hill neighborhood.

I want to eat in this area. They have street fairs, restaurants, and many second hand shops.

8. Staying up on election night!!

This semester will be crazy come November because of the Presidential election. There will be debate watch parties up until the night of elections. Mark November 8th on your calendar.

These are just a few of the adventures to be had in D.C. Hopefully you too can come with me to laugh at Fred Armisen’s show, chill at Great Falls in Virginia, and eat till we feel pregnant with food babies in the Capitol Hill neighborhood. Enjoy 2016 and make the most of it!