It’s easy to be cynical and grouchy as a college student, especially when it comes to inconveniences like the first snowfall of the year. While cynicism is easy, isn’t playtime even easier?

There are million great places on campus to have a little fun with the cold temperatures and falling snow. Taking a break between classes or sticking around campus after class and playing in the snow is a great way to work off the frustrations of class and make memories with friends.

Sled down the hill between the Marriott Allied Health building and the Stewart Library

For all the adrenaline junkies out there, the hill between the Marriott Allied Health building and the Stewart Library is ideal for sledding and ice blocking.

Whether sitting atop a block of ice, a sled or a garbage bag, the incline of the hill will allow any student to fly down it, giggling at the nostalgia of sledding.

Sledding can be a quick way to get from point A to point B between classes, but it can also be a fun roommate or group date.

Make snow angels or have a snowball fight on the lawn at Wildcat Village

After hours of paying attention in class and working on final projects and homework, it can be nice to unwind and play with friends in the snow.

Depending on how frustrating professors are being, making a choir of snow angels or having a snowball war may be just the right way to release excess stress.

Build snowmen on the rugby field

During non-snowy seasons, the playing field just to the west of the Social Science building is reserved for rugby teams and intermural sports games. However, during the winter the field sits empty, full of snow and the occasional flock of geese.

This combination of space and copious amounts of snow make the rugby field ideal for building a community of snowmen. Whether a solo creator or a small group of friends creating new friends, making snowmen is a great way to release stress and enjoy the snowy weather.

Go ice skating in front of Stewart Library and Elizabeth Hall

The bane of shoe lovers everywhere, unsalted, slick cement usually isn’t something to enjoy, much less celebrate.

However, icy cement can be the perfect opportunity to do some sneaker skating and enjoy the walk from class to class. Large cement areas like in front of the Stewart Library or Elizabeth Hall are perfect for cement skating.

Buy some hot chocolate from Art Elements

No jaunt in the snow is complete without a warm cup of hot chocolate. While homemade hot chocolate is the best, the drive to the grocery store for supplies can be treacherous, especially when Harrison Boulevard is full of individuals who’ve forgotten how to drive in the snow.

Art Elements in the Kimball Visual Arts Center is the perfect place to enjoy a gourmet hot chocolate on campus. Skilled baristas can make any variation of hot chocolate that even the most clever student can dream up.