8 Winter Essentials for the Student from a Warm Climate
Coming out of what is being called the hardest New England winter in a decade, I'm reflecting on my first New England winter three years ago. It was one of the biggest changes for me when I moved to college, being from California. I remember asking my roommate (from New Hampshire) for help finding what I needed to adjust to a much colder winter than I was used to. Three New England winters later, I have narrowed down a list of eight essential items to keep any student warm all winter long.
1. Warm Coat
A pretty self-explanatory item and the first thing that my roommate suggested I find way back when! Something with down or quilting will work best at keeping heat in. You see all kinds of coats and jackets walking around Tufts in the winter, anywhere from a brightly colored puffer jacket to a thick wool trench coat.
2. Second layer
Easily overlooked but just as important as the outer layer, the second layer provides some extra insulation on the coldest days. I find myself walking a lot outside to get to and from classes and other activities, so wearing layers in the winter is a must! The second layer can be a fleece jacket or sweatshirt, and it just acts as an additional layer under your warm outer layer.
3. Shoes with grip
In winter, many sidewalks are salted to prevent slippery ice from forming; however, some are not. If you ever need to walk on icy sidewalks or right after it snows, shoes that are (at least somewhat) waterproof and have grip are essential.
4. Scarf
5. Hat
6. Gloves
Three accessories that play a big role in keeping you warm! These are especially nice if you’re traveling into Boston, as it can be very windy in the winter, and the scarf and hat can help to block any freezing wind from your face. And, having a scarf or hat you love makes dressing warm for the winter much more fun!
7. Warm socks
As I mentioned before, being in college often means doing a lot of walking. Even though walking up and down the Tufts hill definitely keeps my body warm, without warm socks my feet would freeze! Having a few pairs of warm wool socks helps ensure your walks to class remain comfortable even in the colder months.
8. Raincoat or umbrella
With the transition from winter to spring comes the transition from snow to rain. A good raincoat or umbrella will keep you dry throughout the transitional period.
Moving from California winters to Massachusetts winters was definitely an adjustment, but with the right warm clothes, I was able to transition with ease.