Unless you’re going to college in California, Florida or another sunny locale, it’s possible your first college winter will be harsher than any you’ve lived through before. Here are some tips on how to survive your first college winter.
Layer Up
Layering clothes is the best option when facing chilling temperatures. Invest in long underwear, wool socks, sweaters, scarves, ear muffs and winter hats to stay warm. Select several lighter layers instead of a couple heavy ones. Weighing yourself down too much will exhaust you by the end of the day. But, donning too few layers will allow the wind to cut right through the fabric.
Additionally, purchasing a large down jacket and nice boots can be worthwhile if you’re attending college somewhere particularly chilly. These will last until well after you graduate and make a huge difference in protecting you from the cold, wind and snow.
Stock Up on Essentials
The combination of biting winds, little sunshine and sub-zero thermometer readings can keep students from leaving their dorms for longer than ever. Save yourself a frigid grocery run or two by stockpiling essential items that’ll last throughout the season. Toiletries, snacks and school supplies are just a few of the things you should get before winter rolls in.
Learn about Helpful Resources
Most campuses have several services that can prove highly beneficial in the winter. College rideshare and shuttle systems can keep you from walking 15 to 20 minutes in the cold. Don’t hesitate to contact a maintenance worker if your heating isn’t working as well as it should. Free hot chocolate and other warm treats are a staple of winter finals weeks. Familiarize yourself with the on-campus health clinic in case you fall ill; contagious viruses like the flu spread quickly throughout college campuses.
Check in with Yourself
Seasonal depression, or seasonal affective disorder, is a real problem, especially for those experiencing their first rough winter. Whether it’s meditation, extra TV binging, a daylight lamp or extra sleep, be sure to take care of your mental health during the colder months of the year. These breaks are healthy and help you keep everything together for the long run.