The college application season is here for seniors at Benilde-St. Margaret’s. The class of 2025 is working to compile their list of top colleges to attend next year, and for many students, weather and climate have become important factors in their decision-making. Whether it’s the appeal to warmer climates or the fear of natural disasters, students are taking into account the impact weather has on their college experience.

Many students here at BSM are drawn to colleges with warmer climates, hoping to escape Minnesota’s cold winters. For senior Eli McLaughlin, warmer weather brings a sense of freedom being able to spend time outdoors without the limitations of cold weather. “I do [think weather contributes] because personally, I want to get out of the cold and go somewhere where there’s no snow, which is why I applied to schools down south and then southwest… If you go to a school where it’s 60 [degrees] all year round, I think that’s better for your well-being,” McLaughlin said.

Beyond just the appeal of warmer weather, some students consider the impact seasonal depression has on their school and social lives. Darker, colder months can drain motivation both in the classroom and on the field or court. “I think that warmer weather encourages more outside activity, which boosts your dopamine and just being happy in general,” senior Mckenzie McMoore said.

Not all students are looking to escape the cold weather. Some students enjoy experiencing all four seasons. The leaves change in fall, the winter snow, and the hot summer days all offer a sense of familiarity since growing up in Minnesota. “I want to stay in Minnesota because I love the fall aesthetics and having the balance of being independent and being close to my family,” senior Jazz Whitfield said.

While warmer climates seem to be the fan favorite, some students are rethinking their decisions after Hurricane Milton struck Florida. For senior Max Kloss, the appeal of sunny skies all year round is outweighed by the risk of being in a hurricane-prone area. “I had a couple of Florida schools that I was going to apply to, but I took them all off after the hurricane just happened, because I don’t want to have to deal with that,” Kloss said.

The college application decision is both an exciting and stressful time. As students weigh out the pros and cons of each college, one of the main factors is weather and climate. For many, the desire to escape Minnesota’s harsh winters or simply experience a new climate adds to the pressure of finding the right fit.