Temperatures are dropping and the coldest weather is around the corner. Winter can be hard for immigrants, especially those of us coming from warm environments. Those of you living in the southern states probably don’t need to worry, but any of you living in the green or blue states on this map… pay attention! Here are few tips that you can use to survive this winter, especially if it’s your first winter ever.
Get your flu shot
Winter is the time of the year when influenza infection is at it highest. It’s recommended to get vaccinated to help prevent against as tens of thousands of people die from it every year. If you just arrived to the United States and don’t have a physician yet, I encourage you to go to Walmart, CVS, Walgreens or your local pharmacy to get vaccinated. Most international student insurance plans cover the flu vaccine. If you aren’t sure, reach out to your international student advisor. Click here to learn more about the flu vaccine.
Increase your intake of vitamin D
Winter tends to be a depressing time for many people. Shorter days and less sunlight contribute to that. Our bodies rely on vitamin D to properly function, and our bodies need sunlight to produce Vitamin D. Increasing your consumption of foods rich in Vitamin D can be helpful. Salmon, Tuna, Oatmeal, Milk, and Mushrooms are all rich in Vitamin D, but a more convenient option is to buy a Vitamin D supplement. You can buy those at Walmart, CVS, Walgreens or your local grocery store or pharmacy. This is especially important for people with darker skin, since it’s harder for us to absorb sunlight.
Invest in good winter clothing
You probably already know that you need winter boots and a jacket, but the type of winter clothing that you buy will have a huge impact on your enjoyment of the season! For those of you that have never experienced winter, it’s better to be over-prepared than under-prepared. I recommend you invest in good winter boots and a good winter jacket and expect to spend $100+ for each. The best deals can be found in malls and outlets. Nordstrom Rack, Marshall’s, Ross, and TJ Maxx are great places to look. I wouldn’t recommend buying winter clothing online if you aren’t experienced.
When searching for good boots, look for ones that provide the most warmth, comfort, are waterproof, and have good traction on the soles. When it comes to a good jacket, ensure that it has a weather-proof outer shell, pockets, adjustable hood and most importantly, that it keeps you warm. The North Face is a great brand, especially if you’re living in one of the northern states. One important thing to keep in mind when shopping for winter apparel is to go a size or two up, to leave some room for the extra clothes you’ll wear underneath.
Invest in good winter clothing and layer up
Other than a good winter boots and a good winter jacket, you will also need warm sweaters, jeans, thick leggings, hats, scarves, socks and gloves. Wear leggings under your jeans and a sweater under your winter jacket. Hats, scarves, gloves, and thick socks are also essential.
Use the weather app on your phone
Winter is the time of the year when checking the weather forecasts, whether it’s on your phone, computer or TV. You need to know what the day is going to be like so you can plan and dress accordingly. You never want to be stuck outside due to a snowstorm or icy road conditions. Frequently checking the weather forecasts will help you stay safe and allow you to change your plans as needed.
Leave your house ahead of time
If you have to be somewhere when road conditions are less than ideal, leave your house ahead of time and give yourself plenty of time so you don’t find yourself rushing on the road. Don’t ever feel rushed when ideal driving conditions are not met. Your life is important!
Invest in a small heater
If you live in a building that is always cold even during the winter or if you have roommates that like the apartment/or dorm room a little cooler than you, get a small space heater! This is a problem that most international student face when they share campus rooms or apartments with American students. As most Americans are used to winter, getting your own personal heater will reduce conflict. You can get affordable ones at Walmart or Amazon.
