@DexterTom ,
You should find out for sure from your doctor whether or not your chronic joint pain condition could be aggravated by cold weather.
I’ve lived in MA (between Maine and PA) for 3 decades, I still do not like the winter here. To me, it is cold from Nov - March, 5 months a year. Snow in April is not unheard of, either.
In a higher latitude, besides being colder, it gets dark earlier, too. In the winter here, it gets dark by 4 pm. Living in an area with prolonged cold and less sunlight could lead to some people suffer winter blues or a seasonal affective disorder.
You may adjust well, love snow and enjoy skiing. Or, you hate those long cold winters every year as long as you study there.
By the way, most, if not all dorms probably will not allow a space heater for safety reasons. Learn to dress in layers and learn about thermal underwear. You will need them.
Good luck with your college admission.