You’ve awoken for your 8 am class and you’re about to leave, but you are dreading the fierce mix of freezing snowfall and blowing wind outside. Skipping class and going back to bed may seem like an option, but hibernating at home until summer won’t get you that 4.0 GPA. Pack your bag the night before with these essentials, and strut your stuff out the door like Elsa from Frozen.

1.Moisturizer for wind burn

• What is that red rough skin on your cheeks? I bet you are thinking: It sure wasn’t sunny today, it can’t be sunburn…can it? Actually those rosy patches are classic symptoms of windburn, congratulations. Now moisturize that face with some soothing cream.

2.Sunglasses for the bright sunlight

• Occasionally the sun comes out on campus and wipes all your worries away. The temperature is still 10 degrees Fahrenheit, but at least the sun is offering some solace! Now put on that pair of free sunglasses you got at Quad Day and hop to it.

3.Gloves and mittens to avoid frostbite

• If you want your fingers to go numb, go outside without a pair of gloves, we dare you. If you want to stay nice and toasty warm however, DO NOT forget a pair of gloves. We are not talking about two dollar gloves. Make sure they are warm enough, because if that Illinois wind is blowing hard enough, your hands are going to feel as if you didn’t wear gloves at all. A second pair of gloves, mittens or even ski gloves should be on hand to double up if necessary.

4.Headband for the cute factor (for the days you can get away without a hat)

• Headbands are super cute and keep your ears warm…kinda. For those winter days that aren’t actually unbearable, you may be able to get away with a headband instead of a hat/hood. Doesn’t every girl on campus own a headband already?

5.Woolley nose hat (yes it is a real thing)

• The nose hat aka the ‘nose warmer’ does what it says on the tin. It becomes a hat for your nose. You could technically use a face mask or big scarf wrapped around your face, but if you need some TLC check out ‘The Nose Warmer Company’ for some interesting alternatives!

6.Snow boots for icy sidewalks (Ugg boots are cosy but save them for another day)

• To be able to traverse across campus when the ice hits, you really do need a sturdy pair of shoes. Whether you choose walking boots or waterproof shoes with good tread, a decent pair of foot attire will get you to class with minimum slippage and a bruise-free bod.

7.Scarf (with no holes)

• When choosing a scarf to embark on your journey into the daunting outside world, make sure you choose a nice warm scarf with no holes. Whilst big knit scarves are pretty (and very desirable), a cold neck means your scarf has let you down. It had one job (apart from looking great). You deserve more than that.

Good luck Illini!