Ah Madison…. home of Bucky Badger, Bascom Hill, State Street, legendary football games and the Memorial Union Terrace. I was beyond happy when I found out that I was going to UW Madison. The summer before freshman year was spent working and planning what I was going to bring with me. After all, you can never be too prepared. But, I didn’t bring some of the most important clothing items that I needed to exist in the Midwest weather.
I made the mistake of packing to be fashionable and ended up being uncomfortable and cold. Just pack a few of those pieces for those random nights that you can break away from studying and go out. For you, I would recommend that you bring along sensible shoes, tennis shoes, sweatshirts, leggings, jeans and a warm winter jacket. Don’t forget scarf, gloves, hats and yes, boots too. The mantra here is comfort and layers! layers! layers! Now, for those who have never lived in the Midwest, this is solid advice and you should highlight it, post it and live it. You will never regret following this advice. Make sure you pack accordingly.
However, if you didn’t bring the right clothing with you, that’s ok. We all make mistakes. Just give your helicopter mom a call (you know she has been waiting for this) and I am sure that she would be more than happy to bring you all the things that you need. And with any luck you will go out for Starbucks , enjoy dinner downtown and buy you food for your next late night snack attack .
Enjoy your first year at Madison and happy packing!