The Struggle of Winter and Staying Ahead in Class

December hit hard, bringing a bone-chilling cold that had me second-guessing every decision I made to leave the warmth of my home. One day, the weather was tolerable, and then suddenly, winter swooped in with a vengeance. The drop in temperature is like a reminder that the easy days are over, and it’s time to brace myself for whatever this winter has in store. I’m fully bundled up, but nothing quite prepares you for the slap of icy air when you walk out the door. I’ve been avoiding places like the library on campus because of how freezing it gets. The worst part? When you think the heater will save you, and then it turns on for a minute and shuts off like it’s trying to play some cruel game. I’ve gotten creative—layering up in every piece of clothing I own, drinking tea, and relying on my small personal heater to get me through.

I’m fully committed to the layering game now. I’m talking multiple sweaters, scarves, and thermals—practically looking like I’m preparing for a trek to the North Pole rather than heading to class. I can’t trust these campus heating systems anymore, especially in places like my math class, where the heat didn’t even kick on strong because the school is closed for the weekend. And don’t get me started on the whole “classroom heater struggle” where it’s either too hot or too cold, with no in-between. At least the tea and extra layers help me avoid turning into an icicle while I sit through these classes.

Speaking of classes, I’m actually feeling pretty good about where I’m at with everything—especially with the work I’ve been tackling early. Writing class? Done. Reading comprehension? Almost there. Math? Well, we’ll get to that one later. But the best part is that despite the cold and the temptation to just curl up under blankets all day, I’ve stayed on top of my assignments. Getting everything out of the way early means I get to enjoy a little peace while everyone else is running around scrambling to finish. Even when it feels like everything else is frozen over, at least my academic life is running smoothly.

While cleaning out my phone wallet the other day, I had a surprise: I found $32! It felt like a little victory in the middle of this cold, dreary season—like the universe was giving me a small break.

Winter in college can feel like a lot more pressure than it should. The cold creeps in, both physically and mentally, and it’s easy to start feeling like everything’s a bit too much. But I’ve learned how to balance it—keeping up with assignments, layering up like a professional, and finding comfort in the little things (like a hot drink, finding surprise cash, or getting ahead on tasks). I’m not letting the cold slow me down, not this time. And even though it’s freezing, it’s these small wins that help me power through the season.

So, here’s to surviving this winter, staying warm, and getting through it all while keeping up with classes. The cold might be trying to take me down, but I’ve got my layers, my tea, and my determination to finish strong. Winter may be coming, but I’m ready to take it on—one well-layered step at a time.

Update: Yesterday was my reading comprehension exam, and I confidently believe I passed! With that class now completed, I only have four left to tackle. It’s a small but satisfying milestone as I power through these final weeks of the semester.

Good luck to all the college students out there tackling your final exams—kick ass, guys and girls!