It's raining, it's pouring and yeah, winter is back again. Who saw that coming?! And at first glance it's as depressing as ever.

BUT, whilst winter may seem bleak, there's actually a lot more to it than sneezing fits and broken heating.

Not convinced? You might want to read below to see just how awesome this season is going to be for us students.

1. Party opportunities

Halloween and Bonfire Night (two of our favourite nights of the year) have already been and gone, and you've still got Christmas and New Year to come... and they’re only the main ones. If you want more excuses to wear ridiculous fancy dress or to not remember your night try partying for Hanukkah, Thanksgiving or even Christmukkah (okay this isn’t actually a real festival, BUT it’s two celebrations combined into one MASSIVE party).

2. You’re nearly home

As much as we love uni, there's only so much independence you can take. In no time you’ll be back in your nice warm bed being served substantial meals, as opposed to eating last night's pizza whilst wearing 17 jumpers because you're too cheap to turn the heating on. Plus, home is the only place you want to be at Christmas – presents, ridiculously big meals and cheesy TV, all at the expense of the bank of mum and dad.

3. Take it easy

Most unis don’t have exams until January, and some not even 'til summer! So you should be grateful for that first winter term back at uni: you can avoid lectures, party until 5am and spend any free time you have watching tv all GUILT FREE. Sort of.

4. Get your skis on!

Winter is the snowsport season, and what could be better than hitting the slopes with your friends? Nothing. That's what. And for that reason studentbeans.com has created Zero Degrees - the only cross-university ski trip, taking place in Tignes from the 14th to the 22nd of December. Get the chance to meet a range of people from unis all over the UK. For just £359 you get accommodation, travel and a ski pass. If you’ve never skied before, now is definitely the time to start.

5. Major flat bonding potential

So Christmas plays a pretty big part in winter, and it’s an opportunity to mingle with your flat/house and get people to socialise. If you’re in self-catered accommodation a big flat Christmas dinner complete with cheap crackers is essential. On top of that, you can go all out and organise a £5 Secret Santa and even buy a mini fake Christmas tree. Stockings on doors, a homemade postbox for Christmas cards, and a Christmas themed night out – the possibilities are endless. Oh, and don't forget to all sit down and watch Home Alone.

6. Winter warmers

As a season winter is perfect drinking time. Not only that, drinks we completely forgot about or left in the cupboard all year ‘until next Christmas’ have a chance to be revived and enjoyed once more. Not sure what we’re on about? Mulled wine, egg nog and Bailey’s are amongst some classic winter beverages. And if you’re still hung up about Summer, some winter Pimm’s might combine the best of both seasons! Check out the top ten winter warmers for more info...

7. Change of fashion

Unfortunately you can't really get away with shorts, bikinis and trunks at this time of year without developing hypothermia. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing; who doesn’t love putting on a big knitted jumper with a giant robin on the front and watching the rain and blizzards from the comfort of your cosy living room. Winter is the prime time to bring out those big warm coats and sturdy boots.