I have several friends at school from places like California and Washington. With the leaves falling and an early first snow (October???), I have been bombarded with questions, some of which are absolutely ridiculous, about New England winters. So, as a Bostonian, I thought I would clear a couple of things up.

One

Weather forecasts here are useless. If it says it's going to rain, it'll snow. If the low is 35, dress for 20. Really the only thing the forecast can tell you is when the sun is going to set (which is depressingly early).

Two

You will get dry skin. Try as you might to use lotion and such, you're going to get alligator scales and that's completely fine. You'll fit right in, actually. Similarly, be sure to wear a lot of Chapstick. Cracked lips are BRUTAL.

Three

Contrary to what you might think, it does not actually hurt to breathe in cold air. It's not exactly pleasant, especially when the wind is kicking up, but I wouldn't call it painful. I, for one, like it. Stepping outside on a cold morning is a nice jolt: it really wakes you up and gets you ready for the day.

Four

Enjoy the snow before it turns brown and disgusting. The first couple of days after a storm is the real window to have snowball fights and go sledding. After that, it all gets slushy, brown and yellow (depending on the dog population in the area).

You guys are very brave for coming to the Northeast for college. Put in the same position, I'm not sure I would have had the strength to leave such beautiful weather. So kudos to all the west coasters, and good luck this winter.