I came to Clark from Charleston, South Carolina without thinking much about the inevitable culture shock that I was in for. Coming from a city that boasts the title “Friendliest City in the World” and is a cornerstone of old southern culture, Worcester, MA has been an adjustment. Now I’m here to tell you about the biggest differences and how to adapt.
1. Y’all
Some people will freak out when you say “y’all”. It’s inevitable. They will also freak when your accent (however slight) comes out. This is just because,let’s be honest, southern accents are the absolute best. You won’t realize it until you leave the south, but the way we talk is great.
2. Southern Hospitality is Real
People up north are nice, but people down south are nicer. That’s just the fact of thematter. I quickly learned not to stop, smile and talk to everyone I pass on the street off campus.They will think you’re weird if you do this, trust me. On campus is a different story, though. Clarkies are actually the nicest!
3. Summer Heat is a Thing Everywhere
It gets hot down south. Like, ninety-degree-humidity-sweating-buckets-unable-to-move hot. It gets almost as hot in New England, except that here colleges don’t seem to think AC is necessary in the dorms. I have news for you: it is.
4. Winter is Coming
One of my favorite things to do here is tell people that I’ve never seen snow. I’ve never seen it, but I’ve heard it’s back. Luckily, I have northern family that have bought me everything short of a snowsuit to keep me warm and alive this winter. Stay tuned for more research on snow, conducted by yours truly.
5. Northern Aggression Occurs on the Road
Y’all drive like crazy people. Between the honking, sudden stops and speed I just cannot bring myself to drive up here. One thing I will say though, yielding for pedestrians is so real here, and as s college student who walks everywhere it is greatly appreciated.
6. Beaches
For some reason, I didn’t think there were beaches up north.
Spoiler: Cape Cod is real and beautiful, although the water is freezing and will probably probably give you hypothermia.
7. Iced Tea vs. Sweet Tea
Do not order iced tea. It will be bitter and unpleasant and it’s a trap. You have to actually search out sweet tea up here, and it’s a struggle. This is how you can ultimately measure whether you are north or south of the Mason-Dixonline.