During the first weekend of October, overnight temperatures dropped to the 40s. If you’re not used to the cold weather, we have you covered.
No, it’s not freezing like in the photo above… yet. But if you’re from the tropics (*cough cough* my friends from Sri Lanka) or Florida like me, this cold weather is somewhat of a shock.
First, let’s look at what Vanderbilt freshmen said when asked, “What temperature constitutes ‘cold’ weather for you?” All answers are listed in ℉.
- 32 – Phie Mihm, Maine
- 32 – Gwen Goetz, Texas
- 35 – RuoHan Chen, Pennsylvania
- 39 – Grayson Smith, Illinois
- 40 – Brinnan Smith, Oregon
- 55 – Thisaga Senarath, Sri Lanka
- 55 – Ava Aria, Maryland
- 59 – Terra Jang, Arizona
- 65 – Chelsea Liebenthal, Florida
Clearly, the people from colder climates are more resistant to feeling ‘cold.’ But luckily, with a bit of preparation, winter in Nashville can be an enjoyable experience for everyone, even those coming from warmer weather. Here, we explore various activities and tips for Vanderbilt freshmen to make the most out of the colder months.
Wardrobe Essentials
Look for long sleeve shirts, jackets, and sturdy boots that align with your style and preferences. If you are unaccustomed to the cold, look for hats, scarves, and gloves, too. Thrift stores can offer a diverse selection of affordable winter wear. By prioritizing functionality and individual comfort, you can face the winter weather much more comfortably.
Explore the Indoors
You know when people say, “Explore the great outdoors!” and shove you out the door? Well, forget that! This time it’s explore the indoors. If you dread spending time in cold weather, find indoor attractions you can explore instead, like cafes when you need to work during the week or museums on the weekend when you don’t want to stay in the dorm. Poindexter Coffee is an 11-minute walk from Rand, Starbucks is just across the street from Central Library, and Barista Parlor in Hillsboro is less than a 13-minute walk from your dorm. The Frist Art Museum, Country Music Hall of Fame Museum, and National Museum for African American Music are all free when you show your Commodore card.
Winter Sports
Don’t equate the colder months with being sedentary. Luckily, the Rec has an indoor track if you miss running outdoors. There’s also weights, treadmills, bikes, and a rock climbing wall. The Commons gym has weights and standard exercise machines, too. If you actually like the cold, ice skating is available at Ford Ice Center with online registration. If you don’t want to leave the dorm at all, you can do yoga with online tutorials. Staying active is possible when it’s chilly out!
Dorm Comfort Food
Although walking to a nearby restaurant is always a solid idea, you can stay in your dorm and make some pretty amazing food. CVS sells plain rolled oats, and adding hot water to them and microwaving makes a mug of fluffy oats in under 5 minutes. Scrambled eggs, mug cakes, and hot cocoa can also be made in a microwave. If you need a toasty snack for when it’s cold out, turn to popcorn. By venturing into your dorm’s kitchen, you have even more options.
These recipes are designed for simplicity, requiring only basic kitchen tools like a microwave. They’ll not only warm your belly but also make dorm living a little cozier and more flavorful. Happy cooking!
Local Seasonal Events
Nashville comes alive with vibrant fall festivities, making it an exciting time for Vanderbilt freshmen to immerse themselves in the local culture.
Explore the Cheekwood Harvest, going on until October 29th. Or, take a trip to the Nashville Fall Festival, happening on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays until October 31st.
Overall Winter Wellness Tips
During the fall and winter months, prioritize your well-being, particularly if the cold is a new experience for you. Maintain a balanced diet with warm, nutritious foods. Stay active indoors using campus facilities or online workouts. If you are worried about getting sick, boost your immune system with sleep and hydration. And if the darker afternoons and earlier sunsets are depressing, seek natural light during the day to keep your mood up . By incorporating these practices into your life, you’ll stay healthy and resilient throughout the colder months.
This can be a time filled with unique experiences and opportunities for personal growth. If you’re not used to the new weather, you can and will adapt to it! By embracing the chill and exploring the city’s indoor offerings, Vanderbilt freshmen can not only survive but also thrive during the colder months, creating lasting memories and enjoying the vibrant culture Nashville has to offer.
Until next time … peace!