Seven Tips to Help You Survive Winter on Campus in the Midwest

By Megan Krout

Winter is almost upon us, and students on campuses in the Midwest are getting ready to bundle up and trudge their way to class. The Midwest has been known to have one of the worst winters on the planet, and this year is supposed to be the worst one yet. If you thought last year’s winter couldn’t get any worse, you were (unfortunately) wrong. But maybe you’re one of those people who loves the cold and the snow and -45 degree weather for about 7 months. If so, you probably won’t need the help of this post (you’re a crazy person). For the rest of us though, we have to mentally prepare for the months of frozen tundra-like weather. Here are some tips from someone who has firsthand experience at learning how to become one with the snowmen and yetis.

1. Get a warm, high quality winter coat
And get it before it’s too late! All the best styles, sizes and high-quality coats will be gone by mid-November. It may seem a bit obvious that a winter jacket is necessary for winter, but most students don’t seem to understand what a ‘good winter jacket’ is. A $15 paper thin but super cute sweatshirt you got from Urban Outfitters is not going to cut it. In the Midwest, that’s a late spring/early summer jacket. In -45 degree weather, you’ll drop dead before you even get to class wearing that thing. Go to an actual department store or sporting goods store to look for winter jackets. You’d be surprised at how many stylish jackets they offer. Make sure the jacket is well insulated, well made, and waterproof (if possible). High quality jackets may be expensive, but they are definitely worth it during a Midwestern winter. If the jackets are still too expensive (even with sales and coupons), stop by your local Goodwill or thrift shop and search through their jacket sections. You’ll honestly be surprised at how many nice, warm and well-made jackets they have to offer for under $30.
And yes, the jacket is going to make you look like a puffy, obese snowman. But trust me, everyone on campus is going to look the same, if not worse. Nobody cares if you look like that kid from A Christmas Story. They’re just focusing on not freezing to death on the way to class.

2. Get some winter gear
Boots (not UGGS, ladies), gloves, hats and scarves will be your best friend during the tough winter months. It’s going to be reminiscent of your elementary school days on the playground, but without the fun. Waterproof, fur (or faux fur) lined boots tend to be the best, especially when your professors don’t cancel class during a blizzard. My own campus never shovels or plows when it snows, so getting to class is like climbing Mount Everest. My winter boots have saved me so many miserable days of snow and ice crammed in my boot. Getting cold feet has a completely new meaning when you’ve experienced a big chunk of snow cuddling with your foot. As for gloves, there are a lot of cheap options. You can get fingerless gloves that are also mittens, wool mittens, leather gloves and so on. Pick gloves that aren’t just thin pieces of fabric. Your hands are sensitive to temperature changes, so make sure you have a warm pair of gloves. You can get reusable/rechargeable hand warmers (or make your own) to stick in your gloves as well. I got a pair of rechargeable hand warmers for Christmas, and they have been my best friends through college. Use them in your shoes, use them in your gloves, and rub them on your face. They’re great for everything! Scarves are your next need. And I’m not talking about those thin, silky fashion scarves. Any department store or thrift store should have quite the selection. Your lungs (especially for those with asthma or other problems) take quite a beating with the dry and cold winter air. If your campus is on a lake (like Lake Michigan), the wind can be absolutely brutal. Wrapping a scarf around your nose and mouth helps keep out the cold, dry air and promotes healthy breathing! No more frozen nostrils on the way to class.

3. Plan on leaving earlier
Though it may not seem like it, getting to class in winter takes quite a bit longer than normal. The snow, ice and wind will slow you down on your way to class as well as all your warm winter gear. Make sure you give yourself an extra five minutes or so to get to class.

4. If you commute, only go when it’s safe
Seriously. If there’s a blizzard and your classes aren’t canceled, consider asking your professors about not coming to class. If you don’t feel safe driving in the weather conditions, your professors will understand and help send you the stuff you missed. Be on good terms with your professor, though. If your professor hates you, chances are they won’t believe you. Professors will sometimes cancel class because they don’t feel safe driving in a snowstorm, and that applies to commuting students as well.

5. Don’t play on the ice
If your campus is on or near a lake, don’t play on the ice during winter. It doesn’t matter how cold it is, or how thick you think the ice is, it’s not safe. There are tons of cases of students playing on the ice and falling through. And that’s when they’re not drunk. And don’t do the polar plunge in January. You’ll freeze to death.

6. Plan for the weather the day before
Plan your wardrobe and daily activities based on the temperature and conditions. Check a day in advance to be extra prepared, and make sure you have warm enough clothes for that day.

7. Go have some fun
When the weather isn’t below zero and the sun is finally out, feel free to play in the snow. Most college students play in the snow more than most toddlers. Build a fort, throw some snowballs, and make a snowman. Invite some friends to go have some fun in the snow with you. Don’t hibernate all winter; take advantage of the handful of nice days you’ll have

So prepare early for this winter before it’s too late. Stock up on hot chocolate and all your favorite comfy sweaters and stay warm. Be safe this winter, and become one with the snowmen and polar bears.

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