November 7th, 2014. This first snowfall. That’s right everyone, I woke up this morning and looked out the window to see the very first flakes of the season. Nothing stuck to the ground, and the snow shower didn’t last too long, but it was enough to get me thinking about the winter ahead. The Rochester Winter is a very popular subject on tours, and I’m always being asked questions about how bad it actually is, and what potential students need to do to be comfortable.
The first thing I always like to remind potential students, is the wonderful thing called Christmas Break. This year, the last possible day for a final exam is December 18th. Classes do not start again until January 26th, which means that most students are gone for over a month. In my personal opinion, January is the absolute worst month of Winter, so I have no issues spending it cozied up at home instead of at school.
However, when you are on campus, the very most important thing is to invest in a good coat. I know, this seems super obvious, but you would be surprised at how many students walk around campus in the middle of Winter with just a heavy sweatshirt. I personally like coats with an outer shell, and some sort of fuzzy inside, but it’s really up you! Boots are also must have in Rochester. I came to school with just a pair of Uggs, and I quickly realized that when snow is actively falling, for me they just don’t cut it. I got a pair of waterproof boots from LL Bean at the beginning of the Winter last year, and they kept my feet warm and dry until Spring. Throw some hats, scarves, and gloves into mix, and you’re all set to get to class, even on the snowiest days.
In addition to being well-prepped with clothing, the best thing I did for Winter was learn the tunnel system. Last Spring semester, almost all my classes were in Eastman. This meant during my breaks I could take the tunnels over to the Student Alumni Union, get lunch, hang out with friends, and then go back to my next class without ever needing to go outside. Even if there aren’t any convenient tunnels near you, just learning where buildings have entrances and exits can be super helpful for cutting time outside.
Overall, Rochester really isn’t too bad in the Winter if you come prepared. RIT is fantastic about clearing snow, and between heated bus stops and the tunnels, it’s not hard to stay warm!