Wintertime is a sign of nature that the world is changing. The days get colder, shorter, and sometimes lonelier. During winter, especially here at Deerfield, many people may feel a gush of sadness as the temperatures drop. Besides going to home games and the occasional weekend activity, there is little to do on campus during the winter term. Some students may not even want to go outside as the days get colder and the nights get longer. Thus, students experience short days on campus, with the sun setting as a constant reminder. Being away from home, mixed with dull days of homework, can add up to a day not well spent. To help combat this wave of sadness that has taken a chokehold, we’ve prepared a list of things to do to help you survive winter term.

First, make arrangements with your friends and hang out together. Find a time when all of you are free on a weekday or weekend and spend the day together. For example, make a study group in the library, meet in each other’s dorms and watch a movie, or journey off campus and have lunch at the Bittersweet Bakery & Cafe. Hanging out with friends can motivate you to get through the winter term.

Second, find a new hobby that piques your interest. There’s no better time than the now to try something new. Outside of the Hess is an outdoor hockey rink. Grab a pair of skates from the office and try to glide on the ice for a while.

Lastly, the weekends can serve as the perfect time to get ahead on your upcoming assignments. Throughout the week, Deerfield students have to go to three classes every day from 8:30 AM to 2:50 PM and go to co-curricular from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM. That doesn’t even include clubs and study hall after dinner. Thus, students may have their schedules backed up through and through. In this case, take some time for yourself over the weekend. Get cozy in your favorite library or dorm room spot and get started on some work.