Hi everyone! My name is Geena. Trust me, deciding to come to BU was one of the most exciting times of my life. But as an island girl through and through, the thought of leaving the Jamaican heat to brave Boston’s stormy weather was terrifying and exciting all at once. Here are my four best tips to help you fellow warm weather lovers to not only survive but LOVE your first winter!
1. Stock up on winter gear as soon as possible!
Boston’s weather can be quite unpredictable. Just two days ago it was 50 degrees, but one day later we had to brave an all day snow storm. It can be really exciting to go out in the snow to go to classes, to watch a movie, or to go get dinner. But if you’re not prepared for the weather you might be tempted to stay snuggled in bed all day. So my tip is always be prepared for whatever weather The Bean throws at you so that you can still get up, go out and enjoy the city.
2. Ensure your Charlie Card is stocked up!
For those of you who don’t know, one of Boston’s major transport systems is called the “T”. It’s my personal subway savior for those days when even walking to class feels like too much of an undertaking. BU’s city campus facilitates its warm-weather students well because the T runs all through campus. On those days when the snow mounds appear to be impassable and you don’t have the will to walk to class, hopping on the T is the perfect alternative. So I suggest making sure those Charlie Cards, your subway card, is always stocked up so you can hop on the T and make your life a lot easier!
3. Make a note of all the entertainment options nearby!
One of my favorite weekend adventures is going out to do simple things like eating out, going to the movies and shopping. Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you should stay in your dorm all day! Find out where all the nearby entertainment options are so you still get to go out and have fun with your friends, but don’t have to walk too far to get to. My personal favorites are going to Newbury Street for shopping and eating which you can get to on the T, Regal Fenway movie theatre which is just a 10 minute walk from Kenmore Square and taking advantage of all the restaurants on the Fenway and Kenmore compounds.
4. And finally, find a way to have fun with your friends in your dorms.
With all that was said in point 3, sometimes it’s nice to just chill and have fun with your friends (especially if you’re not up to snow-walking late at night). So have game nights, hot chocolate, movie nights and even dance parties with your friends in your dorm rooms. It’s great to spend time with your friends and having chill nights is one of the best ways to form real and true bonds.
There is absolutely no need to fear coming to school in Boston if you’re coming from a warmer city. Just follow these tips and you’re sure to love your experience here at BU!
