My Autumn 2025 Personal Curriculum

The personal curriculum trend has been taking off lately, and honestly, I couldn’t resist making one of my own. Think of it as back-to-school season, but for grown ups with zero tests, zero pressure, and plenty of cozy joy. Instead of grades, I’m filling my autumn semester with fun things to do books, adaptations, cooking, and creative projects that light me up.

I first saw this idea from Elizabeth Jean, who’s been creating monthly curriculums, but I decided to take the seasonal route. My “Fall Semester Curriculum” will carry me through autumn, with gentle goals that make everyday life a little more intentional.

Before I get into the details, here’s the YouTube video where I shared my full personal curriculum for fall—be sure to watch and join the conversation in the comments!

Watch the Video

The Reading Curriculum: A Miss Marple Reread

No surprise here-the backbone of my personal curriculum is always books. This fall, I’m rereading all twelve Miss Marple novels by Agatha Christie, plus the short story collection. My goal is one book every two weeks, which feels doable with a kettle nearby and a cozy blanket over my lap.
I picked this series because I want to track Miss Marple’s evolution from her first outing to her last. As an adult reader, I notice new details I definitely missed when I first read these mysteries years ago. I’ll also keep a little journal of observations and village gossip notes along the way.

This is for readers who love classic mysteries, small-town scandals, and the comforting presence of a clever amateur sleuth. For me, the reread feels like reconnecting with an old friend who still has new things to teach me.

The Adaptations Curriculum: Page to Screen

I adore classic novels, but I’ve somehow missed so many beloved adaptations. This fall, I’m finally tackling them:

• Rebecca – I collect editions of Daphne du Maurier’s novel, yet I’ve never watched any adaptation. That changes now.
• The Haunting of Hill House – Shirley Jackson is an autumn essential, and I can’t believe I’ve put this off. Perfect spooky-season viewing.
• Little Women – I’ve seen the 2019 film, but I want to revisit earlier versions to compare how they captured the March sisters.
• Pride and Prejudice – Yes, confession time: I haven’t seen any of the adaptations. Not even the BBC one. That’s changing this semester.
• Gilmore Girls (Season 1) – I’m going in completely blind! Everyone tells me it’s bookish, cozy, and witty, which feels like the right vibe for fall.

This module is for anyone who loves comparing the “book vs. movie” experience or needs a reason to curl up for a weekend binge. For me, it’s a mix of excitement and intimidation-but mostly joy at finally filling in these cultural gaps.

The Cooking Curriculum: Soups & Stews

Here’s the truth: I’m a baker, not a cook. Precision and timers? Love. Standing over a stove? Not my thing. But this autumn, I’m challenging myself to try one new soup or stew each month. They feel forgiving, cozy, and deeply seasonal.

I chose this because I want to expand beyond sweets, but still keep cooking joyful. This is for beginners who want hearty, comforting meals without intimidation. Personally, I hope to build three “keeper” recipes I can lean on every fall going forward.

The Creative Curriculum: Puzzles & Painting

No semester is complete without electives. For me, that means two cozy creative projects:
Puzzles: I have a Halloween puzzle and an autumn leaves puzzle waiting. Few things are more relaxing than an audiobook, a warm drink, and puzzle pieces spread across the table.
Hand-Painted Christmas Cards: I stocked up on watercolor paper cards and paints during lockdown, and I’m finally using them. Starting early means I’ll have handmade cards ready to share with family and friends when the holidays roll around.

This part of the curriculum is for anyone craving hands-on creativity, whether that’s puzzling, painting, knitting, or journaling. For me, it’s about slowing down, playing with color, and creating something meaningful to gift later.

Staying Accountable (Without Pressure)

One thing I love about the personal curriculum idea is that there’s no failing. I’ll track my progress in my journal with notes, photos, and even swatches of my painting projects. If I don’t finish something, I’ll simply roll it over into winter.

The point isn’t completion-it’s intention. It’s about giving my fall some shape while still leaving room for spontaneity and rest.

Your Turn: Build Your Own Personal Curriculum

Now that you’ve seen my autumn semester, I’d love to hear yours! Will you revisit a book series, try a new skill, or finally watch a long-avoided show? Share your ideas in the comments here or on YouTube. Let’s inspire each other to create the coziest, most intentional fall yet.