I've lost count of how many people have told me they couldn't go to SUNY Binghamton because of the weather. I was well aware of Binghamton's climate when I chose to come here and it shouldn't be the huge determining factor when you are deciding where to apply. To be fair, I grew up in New Jersey and had seen snow before when I went to college. It didn't bother me and I thought it was pretty. I looked forward to snow days growing up and have fond memories of sledding down the local park's steep hills when I was in elementary school.
At the beginning of my freshman year, I came to Binghamton well equipped for the weather. My parents bought me a long down coat for when it would be below twenty degrees and snow boots for trekking to the dining hall. I brought my warmest sweaters, fleece-lined leggings, scarves and gloves. As soon as the temperatures dipped around Thanksgiving, I would be ready. As my parents put it, at least I didn't need to shovel. I, along with the rest of the students at Bing braved the cold. Our faces hurt walking to class because it was so cold. But as I became more accustomed to campus, I found the shortcuts. I figured out ways to walk to class where I would be outside for as little time as possible. I realized it wasn't that bad. I just learned how to deal with it.
Come junior year and Storm Stella, Binghamton was faced with over 30 inches of snow. Living off campus, I basked in the two snow days. In my almost three years at Binghamton, I can't remember a single snow day. We've had 8:30 classes canceled, but full snow days are a rare occurrence. Binghamton University mostly knows how to take care of the snow and keeps walkways and roads cleared. And when the roads have been questionable, I've chosen to take the bus instead of driving.
So when we finally had a snow day, I really took advantage. I slept late and stayed in my pajamas. I also got a little too caught up on Netflix. When the snow stopped, I went outside and had a little trouble finding my car in the parking lot. All the cars were covered in snow, so I clicked the lock button on my key and followed the sign. Lucky for me, my apartment complex had maintenance people ready with snow blowers and shovels to help everyone get their cars out. I left for campus with my emerged car and went about my day.
If you're considering Binghamton but worried about the snow, don't be. Sure, warmer climates are better for some people but Binghamton has a lot of positive factors that outweigh its cold and snowy weather. Just come with all your winter gear.
