Populated almost entirely with students from London I feel wholly conspicuous – as a token Northerner – studying at the University of Nottingham. Indeed, despite being situated in the East Midlands, one would be forgiven for mistaking it as a Southern university. From having my accent mocked by almost all those I meet, to adapting to the far from cheap nights out, my time studying English here has been an eye-opening experience if nothing else. Currently in my second year, I have discovered the real struggle of what it means to be Northern at the University of Nottingham:
1) Nobody knows where you live
When studying at a university that predominantly attracts Southerners, explaining exactly where you live – in the midst of those illusive Northern lands – proves rather challenging. The standard Northern response is to list any huge city that is vaguely nearby to where you are actually from. In my case, saying I live ‘near Manchester’ is far simpler – and much less embarrassing – than attempting to describe my small hometown of Chorley…
2) Nobody can understand your accent
Before starting university, I had – rather naively – believed I did not have a strong accent. Instantly, my illusions were shattered as my frustrated hall mates looked on in confusion as I attempted to introduce myself. Awkward? Perhaps. However, that is nowhere near as awkward as when my seminar tutor struggled to understand my apparently thick, Mancunian accent.
3) Despite this, they constantly attempt to impersonate you
Yes, there is nothing more painful than having to listen to all of your friends’ attempts at mimicking your apparently hilarious accent, all the while pretending not to be irritated…
4) Your dialect also creates confusion
“I’m going to make tea” announces my housemate Charlotte – who grew up in Wigan – quite clearly referencing her evening meal.
“Oh, make me a cup!” replies a decisively Southern friend, much to the amusement of Charlotte and myself.
Indeed, the ‘Tea Vs Dinner’ debate is a source of much contention in our student home. Equally, our Southern friends express frustration at a Northerner’s use of the word “pants” to describe trousers as opposed to underwear.
5) Realising the shocking extent of extortionately priced nights out
£6 for entry into a club? Really, Nottingham?! Back home, £6 could cover your entry as well as buying you two double Vodka & Red Bulls! That really is no exaggeration. In fact, I have even had friends return home from nights out in profit (no questions asked).
6) Having to listen to your Southern friends bemoan the weather
“Urgh, it rains so much here!” wails my London-born housemate whenever a suspiciously grey cloud appears. It’s difficult not to roll your eyes when you’ve grown up in a place where excessive rain is an everyday occurrence. Nottingham is almost a tropical paradise when compared to the monsoon-like reality of home.
Nevertheless, there are some positives; for example, a distinctive accent can be the ultimate ice breaker and there is nothing quite like meeting a fellow Northerner and feeling that instant bond.
Edited by Mackenzie Orrock
Image sources:
http://www.troll.me/2012/02/15/boromir/one-does-not-simply-become-a-nort…
http://m.memegen.com/y7as4t.jpg
www.twitter.com/northernerlogic
http://memecrunch.com/meme/2XOCW/chorley/image.jpg