As daylight saving time came to an end on Nov. 2, GCSU students are preparing for earlier sunsets and the shift in routine that comes with “falling back.” While the extra hour of sleep may be welcomed by some, many students feel that the seasonal time change disrupts their schedules and affects their energy throughout the day.
Daylight saving time has been part of American life for decades.
According to National Geographic, “In the United States, the federal government first standardized the twice-yearly clock change in 1966. Today, people in almost all U.S. states—with the exceptions being Hawaii and most of Arizona—‘springs forward’ in March and ‘falls back’ in November.”
The shift was originally introduced to conserve energy by extending daylight during the evening hours, but its modern relevance is often debated. As people rely more on artificial light and technology, many question whether the benefits still apply.
On campus, students are already noticing the effects of shorter days. Early morning classes are brighter, but evenings arrive faster, sometimes before students finish their activities or walk back from class.
For students with late afternoon or evening schedules, the change can also affect productivity and safety. The sun now sets around 6:30 p.m., meaning students leaving classes or campus events often walk home in the dark.
“I prefer it to be lighter in the evening, since I have later classes,” said Lauren Ehrhardt, a freshman business major. “With the time change and the weather changing along with it, I find it harder to stay focused during class.”
The earlier darkness can make the days feel shorter and impact motivation, particularly for students balancing classes, work and extracurriculars.
“I’m usually really tired and it feels like it’s later than it really is,” said Molli Burdett, a freshman nursing major. “Which makes me not want to do anything.”
Campus engagement is also impacted by the darker evenings. Outdoor activities such as intramural sports, study sessions on Front Campus or evening trips to the Wellness Center can feel rushed or less appealing.
“I feel like fewer people are outside when it gets darker earlier,” Ehrhardt said.
While the evenings are darker, the early sunrises can be beneficial for students with 8 a.m. classes or morning labs, providing extra daylight to wake up and start their day.
“I do find it easier to wake up when it’s brighter in the mornings. I also feel safer walking to the bus stop,” Burdett said.
Health experts note that the time change can have physiological effects.
According to Britannica, “Changing sleep patterns, even by one hour, goes against a person’s natural circadian rhythm and has negative consequences for health.”
Despite the potential benefits of extra morning light, many students have questioned the continued need for the time shift.
“I think it should end,” Burdett said. “It is one of the most outdated things we still practice. There is no reason for it.”
Nationally, the debate continues about whether daylight saving time should be kept, adjusted or eliminated. Several states have introduced legislation to make either daylight saving or standard time permanent, though federal approval is required for any nationwide change.
For GCSU students, the time change is more than just setting clocks back. It affects daily routines, study habits and campus life.