Chapter Two: Autumn at Cambridge

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The first day of classes at Harvard dawned with a crispness in the air that made Alessia feel both invigorated and a little overwhelmed

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The first day of classes at Harvard dawned with a crispness in the air that made Alessia feel both invigorated and a little overwhelmed. She had spent the morning trying to shake off the nerves that had been building since she received her class schedule. Today was not just any first day; it was the beginning of a new chapter in her life, and she wanted to make the most of it.

After grabbing a coffee from the campus café, she made her way to Sever Hall for her first class of the day, "Introduction to Film Studies." The building, with its Gothic architecture and ivy-covered walls, looked like something out of a classic movie. Alessia felt a thrill of excitement as she stepped through the grand doors..

Inside, the classroom was a spacious, high-ceilinged room with wooden desks arranged in a semi-circle around a large screen. Students were already settling in, their chatter mingling with the hum of old-fashioned ceiling fans. Alessia found a seat near the front, eager to get a good view of the lecturer.

As she unpacked her notebook and camera, a girl with curly hair and large glasses plopped down next to her, a grin spreading across her face. "Girl, your outfit is fucking amazing," she said, her tone more endearing than anything.

Alessia blinked in surprise before laughing. "Thanks! You look great too."

The girl waved a hand dismissively. "I'm Faye, by the way. Sorry, I don't have much of a filter. I just say whatever comes to mind."

"No worries," Alessia replied, already liking Faye's straightforwardness. "I'm Alessia. Nice to meet you."

Before they could continue, the door at the back of the room creaked open, and a middle-aged man with a salt-and-pepper beard and a tweed jacket walked in. The room fell silent as he approached the podium.

"Good morning, everyone," he said, his voice authoritative yet warm. "I'm Professor Thompson, and I'll be your guide through the world of film studies this semester."

He started the class with a brief overview of the course, outlining the topics they would cover: film history, theory, and criticism. Alessia listened intently, taking notes as Professor Thompson spoke about the importance of understanding film not just as entertainment but as an art form and a reflection of society.

As the lecture progressed, Alessia found herself increasingly absorbed. She loved how Professor Thompson related each film genre to historical and cultural contexts, making connections that sparked her curiosity and passion. However, her excitement dimmed slightly when Professor Thompson mentioned the first assignment: a detailed essay on their favorite genre, director, and the historical context of their chosen film. He wanted it by the end of the week.

As the class discussion followed, students shared their thoughts on classic films and personal favorites. During a break, Faye turned to Alessia, rolling her eyes. "Ugh, that essay is going to kill me."

"I know, right?" Alessia agreed, though she couldn't help but feel a bit excited. "But I guess it's a good way to dive in."

"True," Faye said with a sigh. "Still, I was hoping for at least a week to ease into things."

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