Sleighing into the Semester

The spring 2024 semester kicked off with various snowy days at Neumann University.

On Tuesday, January 16th, and Friday, January 19th, Neumann University’s campus was covered in snow.

Classes were moved online and students enjoyed a snow day, with many playing in the snow and others, like the lacrosse team, practicing for the upcoming sports season. In addition, the Child Development Center was closed on both dates. 

Princess Yeabu Kamara, a Neumann student, connects with snow spiritually, stating, “While being in the snow and touching it, the memories of experiencing my first snow in America after relocating from Liberia, west Africa, were triggered…I always thought the snow makes places beautiful when it first hits the ground but dirty after it stays for a few days.”

Other students went on a reflective walk with Madison Wright, who said, “Although I never liked the cold, taking this walk made me appreciate the outdoors and the magic of winter.”

Having a snow day may not seem as common for students nowadays due to the move to virtual classes. Erin Donovan shared, “I think my favorite thing about a snow day is it allows you the opportunity to slow down and spend time with ones you love.”

Throughout Delaware County, various different areas recorded snowfall amounts ranging from 4 to 5.5 inches. 

According to the National Weather Service, West Philadelphia had about 5.9 inches of snow on Friday. 

The snowstorm that hit Philadelphia on Tuesday with more than three inches of snow, was the city’s first snowfall in nearly two years. 

Makiya Jamese Brown, a commuter student at Neumann, commented, “Since there weren't any measurable snowfalls in about three years, I was super excited to be able to finally go outside and make a snowball.”

After a week of snowstorms and freezing temperatures, it is projected for temperatures to warm up towards the end of the week, with a high of 63 degrees on Friday, January 26th.