Ah, Fall. It’s that time of the year when campus is buzzing with activity, the world turns red, orange and gold and #PSL starts trending again. It was officially Fall as of September 22 but here at Waterloo we go by our own rules. If it’s hot in October, we bring out the shorts again and… oh wait never mind it’s 3 degrees again.
Here are some hacks to keep your spirits up and how to stay safe in the unpredictable weather:
1. Layer, Layer, Layer. Even if it doesn’t seem too cold to you, pack that scarf as well. Always keep a scarf and a light hoodie with you. Think of yourself as a burrito, the more tightly you wrap it less the damage.
2. Invest in Warm, Waterproof Boots. We get it, they can be expensive. But you’ll be wearing them every day for 5-6 months a year. They’ll also help you through tiny lakes that sprout up during fall showers. Think of them as a good investment, and to help, you can find a lot of economical options online too.
3. Use Tunnels to Your Advantage. It’s cold and windy. Make use of the campus tunnels to get to classes without getting stuck in Narnia… or at the Wall. Here’s a handy video.
4. Keep Yourself Hydrated. It’s easy to forget a water bottle in the cold but commit to yourself to drink at least 8 glasses per day . Also keep a chapstick or lip balm on all the times, chapped lips are painful!
5. Coffee, Tea and Soup. UW Food Services offer a great variety of warming drinks. Personally, I like to reserve soups for a quick lunch, coffee only to stay awake and different teas to keep me warm and relaxed. Find out about our favorite coffee spots here.
6. Sunglasses. Poor visibility can lead to accidents and potential injuries. Wear your sunnies even if it’s not sunny outside, just to help keep the wind away from your eyes.
7. Umbrella. Keep a compact umbrella or waterproof jacket on you. Unless Rihanna is somewhere nearby, an umbrella won’t be readily available when it is pouring outside!
8. Sing! Singing cheers me up every time I’m feeling down. Just make sure you’re not doing it in a quiet study area or where other people might not appreciate your vocal skills!
9. Take Photos! Once you’re an expert on navigating your way around campus and staying cozy, take photos of the beautiful gold and ruby campus!