Northeastern Ohio Climate

Hiram College is situated about 56 km (35 miles) southeast of Cleveland, Ohio in the temperate zone between 41 and 42 degrees N latitude. The region enjoys four distinct seasons. Because temperatures range from an average low of -9 C (15 F) to an average high of 27 C (81 F), students should bring a variety of clothing and footwear.

Below is a list of suggested items you may wish to bring with you or buy after your arrival in the U.S.

Spring (March-May)
Avg high: 7 to 21 C (45-69 F); Avg low: -3 to 8 C (26-47 F)

  • Raincoat
  • Umbrella
  • Clothing that can be worn in layers
  • Light-weight jacket

Summer (June-August)
Avg high: 25 to 27 C (77-81 F); Avg low: 19 to 22 C (66-71 F)

  • Casual summer clothes (T-shirts, shorts, sandals)
  • Swimwear

Fall (September-October)
Avg high: 16 to 22 C (61-72 F); Avg low: 5 to 11 C (41-52 F)

  • Long-sleeved shirt
  • Medium weight jacket/coat
  • Sweaters
  • Slacks/pants

Winter (November-February)
Avg high: -1 to 9 C (31-48 F); Avg low: -9 to 0 C (15-32 F)

  • Heavy-weight winter coat
  • Warm gloves, scarf and a hat that covers your ears
  • Pair of warm/heavy boots (for snow)
  • Several pairs of warm socks

The following website can be helpful if you would like to learn more about weather conditions in Hiram: http://www.weather.com/

Clothing Styles at U.S. Colleges and Universities

Hiram College students, like those at most colleges/universities in the U.S., wear a wide range of clothing styles blended together to form an interesting array of taste and color. On a daily basis, students (men and women) tend to dress comfortably and casually for classes - skirts, sweaters, slacks, blue jeans, sweatshirts, T-shirts, caps, and sneakers. A backpack is also useful.

As you spend time at Hiram College, you'll become involved throughout the year in a number of special events - on and off campus - including guest lectures, formal dinners or events, concerts, conferences, senior seminars, and graduation. In honor of these occasions, Hiram students dress more formally. Students who are applying to work off-campus through curricular and optional practical training should be prepared to dress in business attire for the interviews.

Traditional Dress from Your Home Country

Every February, the Intercultural Forum (student organization) hosts an International Dinner and Talent Show. On this evening, 300-400 people enjoy a night of lavish dining with foods from many countries and talent displayed by Hiram College International and U.S. students. As a part of this event, many guests and international students wear traditional garments from around the world. Please plan to bring something special from your country to wear for this event.