The new year brings fresh opportunities — and chilly temperatures. As BW students return to campus for spring semester, the Office of Residence Life and Housing shares advice for staying warm, safe and engaged this winter.
DRESS FOR SUCCESS (AND WARMTH!)
Layer up! Invest in a sturdy winter coat, waterproof boots, gloves and a hat. Thick socks and scarves are also great for keeping cozy during walks to class, dining halls or late-night study sessions.
BE WEATHER-WISE
Keep an eye on the weather forecast to prepare for snowstorms or icy conditions. Sign up for BW alerts to stay informed about campus closures or delays. If driving, stock up with essentials like an ice scraper, snow brush, blanket and flashlight.
"I always check the weather before bed to see if I need to clean my car before going to work in the morning," said Alex Dettmer '26, a BW resident assistant in Carmel Hall.
STAY CONNECTED WITH JACKET CONNECT
"Winters in Berea can be frigid, but there are so many opportunities to stay warm and keep you busy at BW," said Bob Beyer, senior director of Residence Life and Housing. "There will be constant events hosted by YJAB [Yellow Jacket Activity Board], the residence halls, athletics, the conservatory and more. Pay attention to Jacket Connect, your BW email and digital display screens to stay informed."
The Jacket Connect app is the one-stop resource for campus life. Students can explore organizations that match their interests, career goals or volunteering passions, browse upcoming events and stay connected with fellow Yellow Jackets.
KEEP YOUR SPACE COZY
It's easy for students to make their dorm rooms a sanctuary from the cold. Ensure windows are sealed properly to avoid drafts, and consider using a small humidifier to combat dry air from heaters. Adding cozy touches like blankets, rugs or fairy lights can also make a space more inviting during the darker winter months.
STAY HEALTHY AND HYDRATED
Winter often brings colds and flu. Stock up on chicken noodle soup, hot beverages, hand sanitizer and tissues, and don't forget to get a flu shot. Even in cold weather, staying hydrated is essential, so keep a reusable water bottle handy.
"As the weather gets colder, the Health Center is a great place to go if you're feeling sick and need to see a doctor," said Constitution Hall resident assistant Leah Kania '25.
PREP FOR THE SEMESTER AHEAD
Avoid the stress of last-minute preparation by organizing supplies, reviewing class syllabi and setting goals for the semester before classes begin. An academic planner and some highlighters can help students manage packed schedules and meet deadlines.
Embrace the winter magic
Winter in Berea offers unique opportunities to enjoy the season. Take a walk around Coe Lake after fresh snowfall, join student activities like hot cocoa socials or cheer on the Yellow Jacket athletics teams.
Kania suggests, "Ritter Library has a fireplace on the second floor with tables and chairs around it for students to use."
"BW students will have plenty to do during the winter months, just as you do for all seasons," Beyer said. "These helpful tips should assist you with navigating the colder months of the year. Let's kick off the semester the right way and create memories in the BW community for 2025."
