Lauren Groulx

Although bundling up and barricading yourself in your dorm room or the library may be tempting, that’s no way to spend a term at Dartmouth. Instead, find ways to get outside!

The Dartmouth Skiway is just a short drive away from campus! And as I mentioned in my 24W preview, Dartmouth offers skiing and snowboarding lessons to both beginning and intermediate snowsports students. If you sign up for these lessons, bus transportation and equipment are provided.

During the first “big” snowfall of winter term, students are invited by Dr. Suess to a midnight snowball fight. Everyone meets up on the Green, and snowballs are hurled in every direction.

Did you know that Dartmouth has campus connector shuttles? Zigzagging across campus from Tuck Circle to Dartmouth Hall and the Hanover Coop Food Store, these buses provide convenient transportation during the colder months. I plan to take the bus to my class in the Life Sciences Center, which will cut my commute time in half and save me from the cold weather.

Light therapy can help combat the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder. Students can borrow sun lamps on a weekly basis by either emailing the Student Wellness Center or stopping by the Berry Library circulation desk. Additionally, some desks at the Feldberg Business & Engineering Library on the west end of campus are outfitted with sun lamps, which students can use while studying.

One of my favorite ways to stay warm during the winter months is by getting a drink from a cafe. Whether you prefer hot cocoa, coffee, or tea, Dartmouth offers several campus cafes to suit your needs. My favorite cafe is Novack, adjacent to Carson Hall in Baker-Berry Library. It is conveniently located in the center of campus, and offers incredibly quick service (as well at Starbucks drinks!) Additionally, there is a study area located right next to the cafe, which includes reservable private study rooms. 

In addition to Dartmouth’s cafes, beautiful and quaint downtown Hanover offers several options. Umpleby’s, Starbucks, The Nest, and Still North, in addition to a few others, offer hot drinks and delicious sweet treats.

Here’s a rapid-fire round of simple tips that can go a long way: invest in some good boots, make time for self-care, and remember that layers are your friend!

So, there you have it—a guide to conquering winter weather at Dartmouth. Winter is an amazing season, and cold weather can be incredibly refreshing. Embrace the chill, keep yourself warm, and make the most of your time in our winter wonderland!