When it comes to Minnesota weather, no one has any clue what is going on. One minute it’s like we are stuck inside a snow globe and the next it’s like we might actually see the sun for more than a fleeting second. I like to call this in-between transition “swinter,” named after the Phineas and Ferb episode in which they created winter during the summer months.
This transition period can be really hard to handle. So, the question is: How do we survive swinter on the WSU campus? Here is a list of how to get through the season that feels like it might last forever.
Resources to Take Advantage Of
You can stop here for both physical and emotional help. If you are not feeling the greatest mentally, make an appointment to see someone through our Counseling & Wellness Services. If the swing between temperatures gives you a nasty illness, drop by the Health & Wellness Services area in the IWC. You can get an appointment quickly and they often offer medications such as cough drops and pain relievers, so you don’t have to go all the way to the store!
Another resource to pop over to is Zane’s in Kryzsko Commons. Have you ever been curled up in your room, watching that crazy sleet swirl around your window? Or have you just sloshed through the puddles of melted snow on your way back from class and wished you had some nice hot soup or a warm drink? Stop by Zane’s! They always have hot soup available and Starbucks coffee to warm you up (even during a polar vortex).
What if I told you that to beat the swinter blues you don’t even have to leave your residence hall? That’s right, your hall has a lot of secret wonders that can help you defeat the sickness that swinter creates. If you’re feeling chilly or congested, a hot shower will change your life. The steam from the shower will open up your sinuses and make the air around you warm. It’s like having a steam room in your residence hall without having to pay extra! On top of that, there are events in your residence hall that you can get involved in.
Don’t want to leave your building? You don’t have to. If you’re looking to stay on campus, check out the University Calendar. Whether you’re looking for when the latest Kryzsko After Dark is or if you’re interested in the upcoming performing arts show, you’re sure to find something that interests you. To add to that, most events on campus are free for students!
If you’re looking to be around other people and cheer on your Warrior family, take a look at what games are coming up! Around this season, there are plenty of competitions you can cheer at! So get dressed in your favorite purple outfit and join in on the fun.
Lastly, if you’re not finding anything that really fits what you’re looking for use your imagination. Find a reason to celebrate today! Did you meet your best friend on campus a year ago? Did you join a club recently? Get others involved! Remember, if you’re feeling out of sorts with the changing seasons it’s likely your roommates and classmates are too. We’re all in this together, Warriors.
Swinter can definitely be tough, but I’m sure you can get through it because soon enough that tree in front of Somsen Hall will be blossoming!
Photo by Kelsa Myszewski ’21
– Updated by Grace Wagner (03/17/2023)