Surviving a Northfield Winter — Tips from a California Native

When I committed to Carleton, the one thing I kept hearing was “I hope you bring a warm jacket.” I laughed it off at the time but when Minnesota winter hit this year, it was a totally different story. For any non-Minnesota natives, you’re welcome. I suffered so you don’t have to. Here are my tried and true methods for surviving a Northfield winter.

Layers Layers Layers

The worst part about the winter isn’t just the cold – it’s that every building has the heat turned all the way up. Having a really warm jacket that you can take off will save you from burning up in your 5a 2:20-3:20 class (or so I’d guess. This is definitely not from personal experience…). You can also still wear your personal style in a way that keeps you warm – for example: fleece-lined tights under a dress. If you need any help, the Carleton Winter Wardrobe offers free clothing designed to help you navigate the cold. 

Non-Slip Shoes

As a self-proclaimed clumsy person, these were a must have. It doesn’t matter what type of waterproof shoes you have, the icy sidewalks will always be out to get you. I’ve found that shoes with more grip have saved me from spraining an ankle. 

Outerwear

Okay so I may have lied. The worst part of the winter is definitely the arctic winds. If you’re not prepared, you can get cold as soon as you step outside. Luckily, I’ve found that good outerwear can go a long way. Knee-length parkas help to protect against the wind, and are also heavy enough to keep you warm. Definitely don’t forget to cover your hands and ears! Mittens and hats are really important to keep you from getting too cold. 

Plan your routes

You’re not going to be able to avoid walking out in the cold. Unfortunately, I had about a 10 minute walk to and from the Weitz Center three days a week (although I love the Weitz, so maybe it wasn’t so unfortunate). If you make sure you know where you’re going and wait inside buildings until you have to leave, you can reduce the time that you’re freezing outside.

Enjoy Yourself

I know I just said to plan your time outside carefully, but you’re going to be miserable if you stay inside for 10 weeks! Let out your inner child and make a snow angel or build a snowman. Coming from California, I’d never really experienced snow, so naturally the first thing I did was have a snowball fight with some of my friends. It’s a memory I’ll never forget, and I promise, you willwarm up. Eventually.

Kate (she/her) is a sophomore from the Bay Area, California. She loves Carleton’s artsy community, and is involved in both the Theater and Dance department and Vocal Studies Program. Kate’s favorite places on campus are the practice rooms, either in Myers or the Weitz, where she is often making music with her friends. When not in class, you can find Kate either walking in the arb or forcing her friends to watch bad movies in a study room.