When life gives you Logan winters

Each year, the temperature drops and the days get shorter as winter approaches, and this can have a real effect on students’ well-being, and the balance of university life can quickly slip. It is a common challenge that can be magnified in the winter, but making use of the web of resources Utah State University offers can have a meaningful impact.  

 Sara Adkins, California native and sophomore at USU, recounts adjusting to Logan’s climate.  

“I had a hard time getting used to the cold and the snow,” Adkins said. “In California, you can pretty much do anything all year long.” 

Adkins said skiing is a good release for her in the winter. 

“I love skiing. Another thing I found helpful is going to the ARC — I love the windows there and the natural light. I love the environment of people working out because it motivates me,” Adkins said.  

USU Extension professor Troy Allan urged students to visit the Student Health and Wellness Center, especially in the winter. They can receive basic medical and wellness care, and most services are covered by the student health fee paid by every student each semester.  

“As I was walking around campus and chatted with students, I couldn’t help but notice how many were balancing the pressures of school with smiles on their faces,” Allan said. “Winter is a time when students should pay close attention to their physical and mental health as the cold and darkness can impact our mood and motivation.” 

Students can schedule appointments at the health and center to meet with a nutritionist, councilor or specialist.  

“Balancing academics, social life and self-care can be tough — especially when you’re far from home or feeling the added strain of limited daylight,” Allan said. “I encourage all students, no matter your current state of wellness, to explore what USU Health and Wellness has. Visit our webpage, schedule an appointment or attend a free seminar.” 

Students often share the sentiment that they struggle to utilize resources and some don’t know about them. USU faculty work to help and support students navigate difficult circumstances. 

“Logan winters, like much of Utah, offer more than a picturesque setting,” Allan said. “The cold dark winters can provide an opportunity for self-discovery and community-building. By taking advantage of the resources provided by USU Health and Wellness, trying new experiences, setting routines and connecting with others, I believe USU students can transform winter’s challenges into opportunities for growth and connection.” 

Allan said it can be tempting to stay in and huddle as it starts to get cold, but this can lead to more feelings of isolation. He encouraged students to take advantage of USU outdoor programs like snowshoeing trips and indoor equine events.

Ryan Barfuss is a specialist at USU Health and Wellness. He focuses his efforts on drug and alcohol prevention.  

“Don’t feel you’re not sick enough or hurt enough to use the health center,” Barfuss said. “Don’t just tough it up and endure — get help.” 

People can see a dietician to help them with their nutrition, receive counseling services for anxiety and depression and meet with recovery groups. These services are designed for students, and they are made to be straightforward and accessible.  

“I tell students to find activities that will work in the dark or will work in the cold,” Barfuss said. “You can work out, join fitness classes and play indoor sports. Some kind of physical activity in the winter improves our mood and helps everything flow a bit better.” 

The ARC offers many outdoor programs that allow students to take advantage of Logan’s climate. Students can sign up to go backcountry skiing, play indoor sports or join fitness classes.  

Barfuss said there are different ways to take advantage and support well-being throughout the season. Students can consider taking later classes, having a nutritious diet, enjoying comfort foods and getting quality sleep.  

“It really comes down to a choice, and if you have roommates, it can mean getting that one person to join you to go to the gym or going to an on-campus activity,” Barfuss said.  

Student life is full of challenges that can persist throughout the year. USU offers an abundance of resources, activities, connections and trained professionals that want to help.  

Allan said Utah State’s sense of community was apparent to him when he was visiting campus.  

“As a new member of the USU family, I am thrilled to see so many thriving individuals,” Allan said. “There was a sense of happiness and well-being — a reminder of the resilient and vibrant community that makes USU so special.” 

Allan is a retired U.S. Army officer. He spent time in Kuwait, Iraq and Afghanistan helping soldiers adjust to and absorb shock. He helped set up the Warfighter Restoration Center, where doctors, specialists and locals treated soldiers on site rather than evacuating them to another place for care.  

“From new students to those in advanced graduate programs, it’s clear that while challenges are part of university life, USU offers a strong foundation of support,” Allan said. 

Allan shares his sentiments about the USU campus, noting the rich student community. 

“I hope you all can maintain that sense of well-being and, most importantly, remember you are not alone on this journey,” Allan said. “The university community is here to support you every step of the way.”