During this time of year, the outdoor campus at Etowah sends shivers down students’ spines. With the harsh effects of winter weather setting in, students have different strategies for withstanding the cold. 

“I wear my big orange coat, bring a blanket sometimes, and drink lots of hot chocolate,” Kelsey Cleveland, freshman, said. 

Some students believe it is effective to bring a blanket to school, so they have a way to keep warm while walking outside. However, a few students at Etowah find this inefficient. 

“They [blankets] get dirty and in the way. You aren’t walking that far,” Lily Hovanec, sophomore, said. 

Despite the unpredictable weather, there are some positives to having an outdoor campus. Some examples are the ability to stretch their legs, breathe fresh air, and socialize when walking. However, there are downsides to the campus such as having to withstand the biting wind, slipping when entering buildings, and flash rainstorms. 

“The mud makes students slip, and I personally have done that this year,” Shelby Petrus, sophomore said. 

While some students believe the outdoor campus is not beneficial, especially during the winter, a few students see the positives. 

“It is great physical exercise before each class to get your blood flowing, and wide awake and attentive,” Tyjuane Albright, senior, said. 

As the school year progresses, students at Etowah will continue to engage in their own routines to fight the frigid weather.