Though the temperature remains a muggy 80 degrees and not a single leaf has touched the ground, fall is upon us. With its return comes a plethora of new television shows ideal for wasting the night away as you avoid studying for midterms. Having only aired a few episodes, these shows will not force you into your typical Netflix binge. All are available on Hulu and on their respective networks’ websites.

Designated Survivor: 4/5

Put almost every government official in the Capitol building, and you have created a recipe for disaster. “Designated Survivor” capitalizes on fears of terrorism and an unstable political environment to enthrall viewers on a “whodunit” mission. 

As the only remaining Cabinet member, Housing and Urban Development Secretary Tom Kirkman (Kiefer Sutherland of “24”) becomes President following a bombing at the annual State of the Union address. The show follows Kirkman’s personal and presidential struggles as his administration attempts to address the attack’s fallout, both at home and abroad.

Though slow and disjointed at times, “Designated Survivor” is a unique take on political drama and is a must-see for fans of “Scandal” and “House of Cards.”

This is Us: 5/5

If you want to laugh out loud, cry into a pillow or gasp at the end of every episode, “This is Us” is perfect for you. The story revolves around four seemingly unconnected individuals who share the same birthday, as they navigate life’s highs and hardships.

The acting and writing in “This is Us” is stellar, and the story constantly sends viewers on an emotional rollercoaster. The diversity of characters includes a playboy actor (Justin Hartley), a woman struggling with her body image (Chrissy Metz) and a wealthy businessman (Emmy-award winner Sterling K. Brown). Viewers can easily identify with the characters and join them on their quests to find love, fulfillment and happiness.

The Good Place: 3.5/5

Have you ever wondered what life after death is like? “The Good Place” attempts to answer that question. 

Starring Kristen Bell (“Veronica Mars,” “Frozen”) as Eleanor and Ted Danson (“Cheers”) as Michael, the comedy finds Eleanor in a Heaven-like, idyllic neighborhood – even though she did not live the most moral of lives. She soon discovers that a mix-up took place and that Michael, the facilitator of The Good Place, thinks she is someone else. Eleanor must either become a better person to merit her spot or figure out what went wrong.

A talented and diverse cast allows “The Good Place” to thrive with an original concept. Though it overuses some punchlines, such as the use of “fork” or “bullshirt” as curse words, it is still a good way to relieve some stress and get some laughs.