<p>I have always lived in places where the temp rarely goes below freezing. Do people generally get used to it? Or do (some wimpy) people (like me) just stay inside all the time?</p>
<p>It's not that bad, IMO. Definitely winter, but if you remember to dress for it (layers!), it can even be fun. I think people are more active in winter in Minnesota than in a lot of places where winter is much, much milder. I had friends who liked to go winter camping in Minnesota. The worst part about winter weather is having to drive on bad roads, and at Carleton, that's not a problem for students.</p>
<p>This past winter was particularly harsh, with temperatures staying below zero for a week at a stretch, and I have to say, it was pretty tough for me (and I grew up in upstate NY!). You'll NEED a heavy-duty winter coat to be comfortable, not just some pretty peacoat. Gloves, mittens, hats, and scarves are also necessary. Frostbite, even in short periods of exposure, is a real possibility some January evenings. </p>
<p>Nonetheless, there are some upsides to the winter here: skating on the Bald Spot, sledding, cross-country skiing, snowball fights, etc... But there will be days, I'm sure, where you don't really want to leave the dorm (especially if you live in Goodhue).</p>
<p>That said, I wouldn't trade Carleton for more warm weather. The cold's a bonding experience and, in the great scheme of things, not SO awful that it constitutes a serious flaw in the school. Plus, now I appreciate spring so much more!</p>
<p>I visited in very late October (I'm from central North Carolina) and I thought it was pleasant. Then again, that's the difference between 25 and -25. Apparently most kids look forward to the cold for broomball and take their hardest classes during the coldest term.</p>