How bad are Minnesota winters?
We do indeed get snow, sometimes a lot, and it is cold for much of the school year. However, most of the snow and cold come during January, which coincides with our six week winter break. Fortunately for the 80% of non-Minnesotan students here, Macalester is a fairly compact school. There is a system of tunnels connecting the dorms and links connecting many of the academic buildings. Twin Cities events and activities tend to set off any feelings of cabin fever. In addition to many indoor concerts and activities, outside activities include the annual Winter Carnival, cross-country and downhill skiing, skating, and playing in the snow. For a student used to warm climates, Minnesota weather can be a shock. However, winters usually last only three months, and with a good jacket, it is easy to keep warm.
