Commuter students weigh risks as winter storm threatens Middle Tennessee

Lipscomb University commuters are bracing for a mix of in-person, remote and canceled classes as a Severe Winter Storm Warning takes effect for Davidson County from midnight Friday through 6 p.m. Sunday.

While the university typically remains open during inclement weather, the National Weather Service is warning that “travel could be impossible” as a mix of snow and ice moves through Middle Tennessee. Forecasters predict up to 6 inches of snow alongside ice accumulations that could reach three-quarters of an inch.

In an email sent to the campus community, university officials stated that Lipscomb “typically does not fully close but instead adjusts operations as needed.” However, leadership will monitor conditions throughout the weekend to determine if a shift to remote operations is necessary. An update regarding Monday, Jan. 26 operations is expected by 7 p.m. Sunday.

For those driving from outside the “Lipscomb bubble,” the decision to attend class is more complicated than just checking an inbox.

“If there’s more than two inches of snow, and I know it’ll be dangerous for me to go out, then there’s where I simply say I can’t go,” said Ramon Nuñez, a junior business management and marketing major. Nuñez, who lives on a hill, said the terrain makes commuting hazardous. “Many cars slip up trying to get in or out of the hill,” he said.

Other students say the decision comes down to the mechanics of their vehicle. Nestor Sarmiento, a junior mechanical engineering major, said his routine begins the moment he wakes up.

“My first response is to look outside my window,” Sarmiento said. “If I see heavy snow, it’s already an indicator of staying home regardless of the university’s decision. I drive a front-wheel-drive car; I know better than to take my car out and end up in a ditch.”

Sarmiento noted that while moving to Zoom provides “peace of mind,” it is not a perfect solution. “It allows me to not worry about the dangers of driving,” he said. “However, it also comes with its own problems; connectivity issues can cause disruption in class materials.”

The shift to digital learning also allows for more flexible scheduling. Lin Zhang, a senior computer science major, said she views a snow day as an opportunity for balance.

“I would enjoy myself during a snow day for self-care and rewatch the Zoom later when I’m in study zone,” Zhang said.

If the snow does keep students home, many plan to stay productive. Pablo Ramos Sanchez, a junior finance major, said he plans to use a potential snow day to apply for internships and complete assignments.

But for many, the ultimate goal is to trade the stress of the interstate for the comfort of home. For Sarmiento, a day away from the roads means a rare chance to reset.

“My perfect snow day is waking up to a warm breakfast with a hot beverage, getting to enjoy myself by watching movies and then layering up to go walk through the snow outside for a bit,” Sarmiento said.

From the hills of Nashville to the interstates of Middle Tennessee, Lipscomb’s commuters are proving that a winter storm doesn’t mean a lost day. Whether they are preparing for the stress of icy roads, finding a moment to relax with self-care, or using the time to apply for internships, these students are finding ways to adapt.

While the university’s official status remains a “waiting game” until Sunday night, the student body has already shifted gears. Between the decisions of the morning commute and the simple joy of a walk in the snow, commuters are finding their own balance – proving that even when the roads are frozen, their productivity and spirit are not.