Jen Lee exploring the igloo on a snowy weekend.

Nothing beats a hot chocolate on a brisk, sunny day. The sweet aroma and the warmth of the cup through knit gloves gives off a sense of holiday and joy. Even as the Boston winter months grow brutal, it’s hard not to notice the beauty of winter. The sparkle of the ice on the Charles, the crunch of the snow as we walk to work, and of course the SP snowball fights in the courtyard. The hammocks might be gone, but last year students built an impressive igloo that fit six people at one point! It’s the perfect time to eat your first snowflake and build your first snowman.

Many of us come to MIT because we love the experience of learning something new. We get a rush from the struggle, as we inch closer and closer to conquering a new subject or skill. And MIT spends a wealth of resources to let the community have a fulfilling student life. From organizing the GSC Ski Trip where MIT students and guests have a chance to take over an entire ski resort for a weekend in late January, to some of the more local attractions, such as ice skating at the Johnson Center.

The GSC Ski Trip is an easy way to make new friends and learn how to ski. This trip often attracts a lot of newcomers and provides discounted travel, lodging and gear. There’s a party every night and there’s even night time skiing! Nothing quite like getting away from Boston to see a starry Maine sky, especially if you have a stargazing app on your phone.

Aditya Pathak, a first year in physics, flying on the ice on only his second attempt to ice skate.

My personal favorite, however, is the local ice skating rink at the Johnson Center right across the railroad tracks. It’s open to students every day and is a regular Saturday treat for me after a long workweek. You can rent skates right there for only $5, or bring your own. And if you want to brush up on your skills, there is always IAP ice skating and hockey classes taught for all levels. Or simply grab your neighbor (or your neighborhood hall councilor) and learn together. The radio is always on, so you can play off any falls as part of the new style of dance moves.

So after two hours of trying to keep up with the 10 year olds that are faster than light, I feel like my hot chocolate and feeling of joy is well earned.

By Tatyana Shatova, SP 2-South Hall Councilor