Surviving snow: Winter prep for Bangladeshi students moving to Northern states
Snow can feel new and a little intense, but it’s also calm, bright and fun. Trails glow after a storm, campus feels cozy and weekends can include skating or a first try at skiing. You do not need to love the cold to thrive. You need simple rules for gear, a few temperature cutoffs and a plan for schedule changes. This article covers all three so your first winter in the U.S. is manageable and even enjoyable.
Understand winter basics and alerts
Know the numbers that matter:
- Freezing point, 32°F or 0°C. Wet sidewalks freeze at night. Expect black ice near curbs and shaded spots.
- Wind chill. This is the “feels like” number the wind creates on skin. Wind chill at 10°F can feel like 0°F on your face and hands. Treat the “feels like” number as your clothing guide.
- Action thresholds. Use these cutoffs for decisions.
- Above 32°F. Normal routine. Wear a jacket, hat and gloves if it’s windy.
- 20–32°F. Pack warm gloves and a hat. Choose boots with treads if sidewalks are slushy.
- 10–20°F or wind chill 10°F. Add a mid layer and warm socks. Walk a shorter route and avoid long waits outdoors.
- 0–10°F or wind chill 0°F. Use a full winter kit. Pick door-to-door routes with indoor stops.
- Below 0°F or wind chill below 0°F. Limit time outside. Switch to remote options if offered.
Know how closures and delays are announced:
- University alerts. Most schools use email, text and an emergency app. Search your university name with “emergency alerts,” then enroll. Learn the terms they use, such as delayed start, remote instruction and closed. These are also often part of international student resources.
- Transit alerts. Install the local bus or rail app. Turn on storm notifications and service change alerts. Follow the agency on social media for fast updates.
- Work and internships. Ask your manager now how weather decisions are shared. Many teams use email or Slack by 7 a.m. Save a short message you can send if buses pause and you need remote access.
- City snow emergencies. Some cities call a snow emergency for parking rules and plowing routes. If you have a car, learn the rules for your street so you avoid tickets or towing.
Plan a simple winter storm day flow:
- Check your university alert, then transit.
- If both are normal, dress for the “feels like” number and leave 10 minutes earlier than usual.
- If classes move online or transit pauses, notify your professor or manager early and switch to remote.
- If you must be out when wind chill is below 10°F, choose a route with indoor stops every 10 to 15 minutes, such as a library or student center.
What to wear and pack by temperature
Layering works better than one heavy item. Aim for three layers that you can adjust indoors.
- Base layer. A thin synthetic or merino top and leggings that move sweat away from skin.
- Mid layer. A fleece or light sweater that traps warm air.
- Outer layer. A windproof jacket with a hood. Waterproof helps on slushy days.
Accessories that make the biggest difference.
Warm gloves or mittens, a hat that covers your ears, a scarf or neck gaiter, wool socks and boots with good treads. These let you adjust quickly when the “feels like” temperature changes during the day.
Choose boots for grip, not just warmth.
Rubber soles with deep grooves help on icy sidewalks. Add removable traction cleats on true ice days.
Pack a small winter kit.
Thin liner gloves, spare socks, hand warmers, lip balm, a small hand cream, a phone power bank and a simple snack.
Care for your gear.
Brush off road salt, air-dry boots at room temperature and keep gloves and hats in one tote near the door so you never forget them.
About MPOWER Financing
Winter is just one part of planning your life abroad. As you budget for housing, clothing, transit and other living expenses, it helps to understand how funding options fit into your overall study plan.
MPOWER Financing supports international students who need clear, predictable funding while completing a master’s program in the U.S. or Canada. For eligible U.S. universities, loan funds can be used for education costs including tuition, fees and living expenses. For eligible Canadian universities, loans cover tuition and university-invoiced expenses. Understanding this difference helps you plan across borders with fewer surprises.
Smart habits for daily life in snow
Make your commute safer without stress.
- Walk with a short stride and keep your weight over your feet. Step down, not out, on curbs and stairs.
- Use a backpack so your hands stay free for balance.
- When a path looks shiny, assume ice. Choose a route with more snow and more traction.
- If you ride a bike, add winter tires or pause cycling on icy days. Many students switch to buses when the wind chill is below 10°F.
Keep a flexible school and work routine.
- Check alerts before you dress. Cold alone rarely cancels class, but heavy snow or ice can.
- Save links for your university’s remote platforms and your company’s VPN so you can switch quickly.
- If you tutor, TA or work part time on campus, ask your supervisor how weather affects pay and shifts.
- When plans change, send a short note that includes your new arrival time or your switch to remote.
Stay healthy and enjoy winter.
- Drink water even when you do not feel thirsty. Heated buildings feel dry.
- Moisturize after showers to protect skin.
- Build movement into your week. Indoor gym sessions, walks at lunch and easy stretching help mood and sleep.
- Try something fun. Skating at a campus rink, a short sledding session or a walk after sunset when the snow reflects city light can make winter feel special.
Budget without pressure.
- Buy core winter weather gear first, then add one piece each month. Start with a coat, boots and gloves.
- Use student groups and local thrift stores for deals on fleece and hats.
- Track utilities and transit in a simple study abroad budgeting sheet so spikes don’t surprise you.
- If you study in Canada, remember many private loans cover tuition and university-invoiced expenses. In the U.S., some private funding options can include approved education costs and living expenses. Confirm details with your university.
