by James Richardson

Created on: July 04, 2010   Last Updated: July 19, 2010

If you’re attending college in New England or anywhere in the Northeastern United States, it’s liable to be warm-downright hot-when you arrive in August.  But those green leaves are going to fall, and the chill, followed by snow, will set in before your first-semester final exams.

Students coming to the Northeast from Florida, California, and other sunny locales are probably in for the biggest shock.  However, with some planning experiencing a different climate doesn’t have to be just tolerable-it can be downright fun! 

Use this guide as a checklist in preparing for your winter frolic in the Northeast:

*  Get a hat and gloves.  In fact, bring two and share with a dorm mate who didn’t plan ahead, or just have extras in case yours are lost.

*  It goes without saying that you’ll need warm clothes.  Sweaters, denim, warm socks-these are wintertime staples.  If you don’t have a good supply of warmer clothing, a shopping trip may be in order.

*  You and your roommate may not agree on room temperature.  Avoid a potential feud with a space heater (assuming your campus allows these-some consider them a fire hazard) and a warm comforter or blanket for your bed.  The space heater can keep your area warmer, and you can always peel layers off the bed if need be. 

*  If you’ll have a vehicle on campus, stock it with the basics for snow-weather driving.  This can include a snow brush/ice scraper, traction material (such as kitty litter), a shovel, candles, cell phone, etc.  A membership with AAA or similar auto club can prove indispensible.  See this handy guide for more winter driving tips.  

*  Think snow boots will look dorky walking around campus?  You might try a decent pair of hiking shoes.  Spray with waterproofing spray if they’re not already waterproof.  This will at least give you a sturdy pair of kicks when other students are ice skating to class!

*  Speaking of ice skates, in all seriousness, winter in the Northeast offers many outdoor recreation opportunities.  Snow boots, snow pants, and thermal underwear make the bitter-cold outdoor temperatures much more bearable while enjoying these activities. 

*  Think you want to try sledding for the first time, or something more involved, like snowboarding?  You may consider renting or investing in the proper gear so that you’re ready to take part in these winter sports when the first flakes fly.  It’ll certainly beat sledding down the hill on stolen campus signs, dorm mattresses, and other creative things college students are known to use as sleds!

If you’re coming from a particularly sunny climate, a lot of this winter gear may not be available at local retailers.  Furthermore, your winter fashions may be in need of some updating.  Have someone get you a gift card to a big-box store for graduation and set it aside labeled specifically for “winter gear shopping”.  Then, as the cold sets in, you can make a trip to your local retailer near campus and stock up on the goods. 

The Northeast has a reputation for snow, snow, and more snow throughout the winter.  However, experiencing a new climate can be a fun experience and a chance to try new things.  Go in prepared, and you’re sure to make the most of your Northeast college experience!    

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