New York City and the surrounding areas have some fierce winter weather coming! Make sure you’re prepared with the below tips and tricks to make the most of the icy season.
Dress Appropriately
Although everyone knows that wearing a well-insulated jacket is key — it’s important to make sure you are adequately bundled up before braving the outdoors.
- Dress in layers! Be sure to throw on a snug layer beneath your sweater and coat so that you have built in insulations.
- Waterproof shoes will keep your feet extra dry and snug, and don’t forget to prioritize no-slip options. Add a pair of wool or cotton socks too!
- Lastly, don’t skip out on the hat, gloves, and scarf combo.
Plan for Transit Delays
Whether or not class is canceled, you may need to travel to work, or run an errand. Download the necessary apps so that you can plan ahead, as the trains or buses may be operating at a slower pace. Check out a few apps below:
Get Cozy Indoors
These wintery days are perfect opportunities to relax or catch up on class material. Lean into this time to recoup and plan for upcoming important dates. Here are some ideas to get you going:
- Plan your semester. Write out a calendar with important dates, make a priority list, and take this time to prepare for academic success.
- Read a book. Did you know the Libby App lets you borrow ebooks, audiobooks, and digital magazines from your public library if you have a library card?
- Catch up on a favorite show or watch a classic ‘New York’ movie.
- Tap into your creative side by journaling, scrapbooking, painting, or practicing your favorite hobby
- Check in on a friend! Staying inside can be difficult sometimes, so be sure to give a neighbor or friend a call.
Some Practical Reminders
- Depending on the weather, power outages can occur, although it is unlikely. Just in case, consider grabbing a few snacks and necessities including a flashlight, charged battery packs for tech, and plenty of warm blankets.
- Remember to sign up for emergency notifications from Columbia Public Safety, and keep an eye on your email for important messages from professors.
Winter can either be beautiful or your least favorite season. Fortunately for us, we have all four seasons here in NYC, and we can take advantage of the highs and lows of all of them. For some ideas, check out University Life’s Welcome Week events here for some fun and free activities to do on campus.
