There is nothing that heightens one’s nostalgia for spring weather quite like a snowstorm in the middle of April.

The sun is shining, days are longer, birds are chirping and… there’s snow as far as the eye can see.

Most Minnesotans are familiar with this kind of inconsistent spring weather, even though I’m pretty sure it’s been awhile since a snowstorm this big has hit us this late in the year.

As someone who grew up someplace even farther North than St. Peter, I’ve grown accustomed to welcoming spring in some different ways.

It really helps motivate myself for that final push of the semester.

Studying outside and enjoying the floral scenery may not be an option for us right now, but there are still plenty of ways to get into the spring mood.

First, switch up your wardrobe.

There is nothing that signifies the end of winter quite like floral print and bright colors.

Spring is all about life starting anew, so why not treat yourself to a new top or dress to reinvent yourself a bit?

Of course, sometimes it’s difficult to come by some spare cash as college students, so bringing out some old spring favorites will work just as well too.

Out with the old greys and maroons and in with the new pastel blues and pinks.

Second, get a haircut.

It has become a ritual of mine to chop off about eight inches of my hair every spring.

It doesn’t just make my head feel lighter but it also breathes a bit of new life into my appearance.

It doesn’t necessarily have to be noticeable for everyone, as long as you feel refreshed, your outlook on school and work will be that much brighter.

Winter focuses on warmth and heaviness to keep cozy so why not do just the opposite to welcome spring?

For a long time, I hated the idea of cutting so much of my hair off, so that’s fine if someone feels the same way.

Instead, try a new style or updo to compliment a brightened wardrobe.

The slightest hair alterations really do go a long way when it comes to finding a new spring in your step.

Third, beautify your room with flowers galore.

The ever-popular Christmas lights that are strung in dorm rooms are certainly lovely during the fall and winter months, but spring needs a bit more color to liven up the atmosphere.

Most grocery stores will have some kind of potted plants available for purchase, so perhaps try clearing a space by the windowsill to give one of these a home.

Even entwining strands of paper flowers with the Christmas lights can give a room a whole new feel.

Fourth, start a new workout routine.

This one is usually more difficult for students buried under layers of stress but it does help energize the body.

Whether it’s utilizing Lund’s equipment or taking to the muddy outdoor trails, getting your body moving is a sure way to signify that change is in the air.

Often all it takes is switching up a daily routine to renew one’s motivation for finishing out the semester in style.

Plus, it’s never too early to start working on that beach bod.

Finally, enjoy the sunshine.

There are other ways to do this that don’t involve sitting outside in thirty-degree weather.

Find a window to sit by during the day while you’re deep in a reading and open the shades in your room to let the warmth in.

The caf has huge windows to sit by during lunch, make sure to snag a spot by them while you’re waiting for friends.

Outside might still be chilly but the sun’s rays certainly aren’t.

There are many ways to handle that spring fever, these are just a few examples to keep yourself out of ongoing ‘winter depression.’

Students are often so weighed down with responsibilities at this time of the year that the very symbol of rejuvenated life can be enough to energize us for that final push of the semester.

Take a leaf out of my “Minnesota Spring” list, a little change can go a long way.

You’ll be more than ready for when the flowers really start appearing all over campus.