Some people think winter is cozy, but those people probably are not college students living in old houses. There are definitely pros and cons to living off-campus, the cost of heat being one of the main difficulties. However, my housemates and I have successfully managed to keep from freezing, despite the fifty-degree thermostat reading.

1. Cook something in the oven

Not only does this result in food, but when it’s done, you can stand next to the open the door and let the heat waft out. Just don’t get too close.

2. Get an electric blanket

Falling asleep while shivering is almost impossible, and no matter how many standard blankets you stack on top of yourself (5, to be exact), it is still possible to be cold.

3. Invest in a space heater

These do wonders for warming your room and defrosting cold toes. Make sure only to use it when no one else is home, because otherwise you will inevitably blow a fuse and have to brave your scary basement to flip the switch.

4. Wear socks to bed

Will keep heat from escaping through your feet, and saves you from the shock of the cold floor in the morning.

5. Run your hands under warm water

This one evidences our true desperation. Typing with frozen hands gets quite difficult and greatly slows productivity, and the warm water will instantly reawaken your fingers.

6. Layer up

You really can't go wrong with layers. Wear as many sweaters, scarves and pairs of socks that you can comfortably move in.

7. Snuggle

Individually you all may be frozen, but together warmth is a possibility! Pile your friends onto one couch with a couple blankets and you are good to go.

Thankfully, the shortest day of the year has passed and each day brings us closer to spring. However, this Michigan winter will realistically not let up anytime soon, but these strategies will keep you from freezing until it does.

Most of all, try to enjoy the endless snow!