Every year around this time, the threat of the first "snowmegeddon" starts to circulate. There is always the question however, of whether this awful impending blizzard will really live up to the news hype, or if Mother Nature will change her mind. Do the school's and businesses really need to be shut down? Do you have to run to the store and buy enough food to last you a month? The thing is, you never know. Even though we have amazing scientists doing around the clock information about storms such as this, we can never be one hundred percent sure. Since that is the case, it is never a bad idea to be at least a little prepared.
Aside from your standard first aid kit, you might have to have some of these on hand as well...
Three days’ worth of nonperishable food
Can opener
Water
Extra pet food and water
Flashlights and batteries
Waterproof matches
Candles
Change of clothes in a knapsack
Extra set of house and car keys
Blanket
Roll of toilet paper
Notebook
Wine (of course)
In addition to your house, make sure you stock up in your car as well, just in case.
Blankets
Snacks
Water
Flashlight
Shovel
Extra Salt (or Kitty Litter)
Crank Radio
Not that you should be driving anywhere unless it is absolutely necessary, there are a few things you can do to make your life a little easier for driving in a snow storm.
Don't forget to raise your windshield wipers. If you want to get double protection, cover them with an old pair of socks so they don't get ruined.
Take an old large sock, fill it with cat litter and leave it in your car over night. This will absorb moisture in the air and it will prevent fog and frost on your windows.
Use cooking spray to keep the rubber edges of your doors from freezing shut.
Do not. I repeat. Do not use hot water to melt the snow off of your windshield. You will have a cracked, and ruined windshield, which is much worse and harder to fix.
Put large zip lock bags over your mirrors to prevent them from freezing over.
Water and vinegar makes a great DIY ice melt.
Use a car mat to get traction if your tires are stuck on ice.
In the end, you may or may not need to use any of these things (It is always a blessing when you do not). So, this snowstorm, stay inside, stay safe, use the excuse to lay around in your PJs all day on a Netflix binge and just relax.
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Luckily, many colleges offer a number of ways to take part in campus and community life, without forcing you to dedicate all of your time to these organizations. Here are a few ideas!
1. Look into Housing and Dining.
Many first-year students start off college life in residence halls, and the Housing & Dining network throughout campus often provides multiple opportunities for students throughout the year. Many buildings have student community councils that work to create policies and events that make the dorms a more welcoming home for residents. Becoming a community assistant (or the students who work the desks at the front of many halls) is another easy way to have a consistent, well-paying job only minutes away from your room.
If you really enjoyed your housing experience, consider applying to be an RLA, or, if the school offers it, help to teach the first-year community. You'll get the chance to help support new and returning students over the year, and many of these positions also cover major costs like board and meal plans.
2. Pay attention to campus postings.
This advice is more obvious, but it still gets overlooked a fair amount. Even on a busy day, taking the time to stop around campus and look at the flyers advertising clubs and events can draw your attention to something that you never would've noticed otherwise. Students on many campuses also chalk the sidewalk to catch students' attention while they walk to class. Just make sure that the event you're interested in hasn't taken place already!
3. Find common interest groups.
One way to find friends and get involved is to focus on what you're passionate about. Have you always loved to sing? Do you enjoy playing video games? Is photography your favorite past-time? Have you always wanted to join Greek life? Whatever you love devoting your time to, chances are there are organizations around school who are focused on the same thing. Check the student life section of your university's website, or stop by a student organization fair at the beginning of the semester.
4. Join an intramural sports team.
If you're the athletic type, you've probably heard of intramural sports. Often offered through the Rec Center or the residence halls, most colleges often offer various indoor and outdoor sports to take part in throughout the year. Personal favorite? Mini golf.
5. Work on a cause that you care about.
Whether you're passionate about a political group, a social cause, or a religion, working with people who value beliefs similar to yours can be an easy way to meet people, get a better sense of your own identity, and promote causes that are important to you. Look into getting involved with College Democrats, Republicans, or whatever party that you belong to. Find a club that supports social issues, from women's rights to protecting the environment. If you're religious, look into student organizations based on your faith.
6. Join a club related to your major.
Even if you're not entirely sure what you want to do after school, finding a club or organization related to your field of studies can benefit you long after you leave the classroom. From career-related workshops to conferences to professional connections, these groups have a lot to boast.
7. Get an on-campus job.
If you have the time, need to work, or want to save a few extra dollars, finding a job on or near campus is a time-effective way to build up your bank account and gain work experience. Check in your residence hall (see #1), at local businesses and offices, or make an appointment with your school's career center.
8. Volunteer.
When you're caught up in school life, it can be hard to think about the bigger picture. Volunteering your time to people (or animals/an environment) in need puts things in perspective and allows you to feel good while making a positive difference. Check if your college town has a volunteer page, or look up local organizations requesting help.
Best of luck this year! Get out, and get busy.
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