I grew up in Ohio, which means I have experienced the whole spectrum of weather. Tornadoes, droughts, floods — you name it, we have had it sometime in my life.

The main season that many people have trouble adjusting to is winter. I especially have this problem, as I am very sensitive to the cold. However, I have learned how to deal with nearly everything winter can throw at you.

My first suggestion is to get a good pair of boots. They should be very warm, be waterproof and have a nonslip sole. You should make sure they have enough room in them to fit in some warm socks in case it gets very cold. My boots have a removable inner layer, which can be thrown in the dryer if they get wet from snow. It is not necessary, but it is a nice feature.

My next suggestion is to make sure you have a hood on your coat, because really nothing keeps your head and neck warm the way a hood does. I bought a coat this year without a hood, which in hindsight was not a good idea. However, it is possible to make something similar out of a scarf. Sit a thicker scarf on the top of your head, spread out so you can get as much surface area out of it as you can. Take the leftover scarf on either side and wrap it just over where the last layer ends. Tuck it into your jacket and you have something that feels very much like a hood.

For those frigid days, put long underwear or tights on under your pants. The same trick applies with multiple pairs of tights if you want to wear a dress.

Remember layers. Just because it is cold outside, does not mean someone has not cranked up the heat in a classroom. Heck, a frigid morning can even lead to a spring-like afternoon. Layers ensure you are warm when you need to be and can simply take off a hoodie or cardigan if you find yourself somewhere toasty.

Many people let the gloom of winter get to them, but surviving winter is really about learning how to make it fun. Pick up a cheap sled and go sledding down one of the many hills on campus. Go ice skating, either at the ice arena or at an outdoor venue.

If you are interested in skiing or snowboarding, Boston Mills and Brandywine ski resorts are both about 35 minutes away from campus. If you want winter thrills but without the skill needed for those activities, The Chalet in Strongsville offers tobogganing. They just put in a lift to carry the toboggans up the hill, which is great because carrying a 50-pound sled up steep stairs is no party.

Winter may be frightening, but there are plenty of ways to beat the cold. All bundled up, the negatives of winter can melt away, allowing you to enjoy the beauty and fun of a winter wonderland.