Madison Reporter

University of Wisconsin–Madison students experienced a chilly start to the spring semester as they returned to classes on Tuesday. An arctic air mass swept through the area, resulting in subzero temperatures and windchills reaching 20-below. Despite the harsh conditions, some students embraced the winter weather by sledding, while others ignored it entirely, opting to wear shorts.

The week ended on a warmer note with temperatures climbing to a more typical 24 degrees by Friday. Students were reminded that the days would eventually grow longer and temperatures would rise as the semester progressed.

"Badgers stocking caps are always fashionable on campus, and good for keeping the ears warm too," noted Althea Dotzour, capturing images of students adapting to the cold. Elizabeth Fani-Jantzen, Katie Leinenweber, Bridget Barry, and Elise Harron were seen carrying cardboard sleds up Bascom Hill on Wednesday. Another group of friends—Saul Espino, Aidan Kennedy, Alex Richardson, and Nicole Aigner—found creative ways to enjoy the snow with makeshift sleds crafted from a plastic tub and shower curtain liner purchased on State Street. "You can get some distance with that for sure," they said about their improvised sled.

The clear air provided stunning views of State Street and the Wisconsin State Capitol from Bascom Hill. Meanwhile, Bascom Hall served as a gathering point for those braving the cold for sledding activities.

Despite Thursday's continued low temperatures, some students appeared unfazed by the chill. Jeff Miller captured images of two bundled-up students making their way across campus on Tuesday when temperatures peaked at just 2 degrees. In addition to academic learning, UW students gained practical knowledge in dressing warmly for frigid conditions.