The first thing people say when they hear you're going to Bowdoin is, "Maine!? You know they have winter there, don't you?" And it's true. Winter in Maine lasts for several months. There are multiple ways students go about handling winter. Some hole up, call the weather miserable, and just wait for spring to come, but for most students, winter is a time for enjoying skiing, snowball fights, visits to L.L.Bean for warm clothing, and hot chocolate or cider. While the College may experience a few blackouts, they aren't common, and Bowdoin tries hard to keep things running and paths plowed so you can get to class.
However, winter isn't the only season you'll experience at Bowdoin. The weather is always changing and sometimes brings a week of clear skies or a streak of pouring rain. Autumn brings beautiful colors to the trees, winter allows the creation of an ice rink on the Quad, and spring is muddy but wonderfully fresh. If a certain type of weather doesn't' suit you, don't worry, it will probably change soon. Whatever the season, there is always something great to do outdoors, including backpacking, kayaking, surfing, skiing, or even just taking a walk in the Town Commons.