Girls from New Jersey get a lot of hate, especially since Jersey Shore made its way on MTV. Despite the rep, we're definitely the girls you want to take home to mom.

1. We're independent and don't scare easily...

Most of us have probably been working since before we could drive and have dealt with a lot more misfortune than most. We're tough (because we have to be), we respect ourselves, and we don't put up with bullshit.

2. ...except when we have to pump gas.

Honestly, what even? I'm sorry but I'm still a lady and will ask you to pump gas for me when I'm too lazy.

3. We've got a great sense of humor, but can sometimes get defensive.

For the most part, we don't take life too seriously. The rest of the country is constantly making us the butt of a joke, so we have to learn to laugh it off (taxes, Chris Christie, you know, hahaha.) We can handle a lot, but if you insult our family/friends/way of life, watch out. Also, 'Joisey' will never be funny so please stop.

4. We're blunt and opinionated.

If we have a problem with someone/thing, we're going to say so. Wouldn't you want a girl who speaks her own mind and thinks her own thoughts instead of going along with whatever anyone else says? (See also: we curse like sailors and honestly don't give a f*ck)

5. Our road rage can be a little intimidating.

There's a reason cars have horns, and we're not afraid to use 'em. We have the right, seeing as people from anywhere else in the country really don't know how to drive. Until you've driven into the city or sat in the parking lot that is the Parkway going south in the middle of July for 4 hours, NOT. A. WORD.

6. We're fun and down to earth.

Girls from NJ are used to everything; we're an hour away from two major cities, minutes from gorgeous beaches, a short drive to the country, and have beautiful trails and mountain ranges in the very place we call home. We're down for anything, whether it's a day on the boardwalk; a hike on the Appalachian trail; or a weekend in Manhattan. A lot of us grew up in the 'burbs, so we're super chill to hang out with you and your guy friends (even if 'dates' consist of late night runs to Wawa.)

7. Our pizza and bagels are better than your pizza and bagels.

Sorry, Chicago, don't even try to argue with us on this one.

8. We love to show off the Garden.

From taking you to our favorite diners or our beach house down the shore, we want to make you feel as at home as we do. Meeting our family is a must as family is so important to us. We'll prove to you we're not from the 'armpit of America.'

9. We are fiercely loyal.

Maybe this comes from the emphasis we had on family growing up (or that even though our sports teams suck we'll keep rooting for them until the day we die) but once we love someone, we love them unconditionally and that not only makes us awesome girlfriend material, but just awesome human beings too.

10. Our pride runs deep.

In good times and times of crisis, New Jersey pride tops any other state's. We all support each other and are passionate about a common good (e.g. #JerseyStrong after the devastation and of Hurricane Sandy.) Some of the nation's most relevant figures (Bon Jovi, 'The Boss', John Travolta, Meryl Streep, and many, many more) all came from New Jersey, so we must be doing something right up here. We are compassionate, proud, and will support you in anything and everything you aspire to do; just a few more of those outstanding girlfriend qualities Jersey Girls possess.

SEE ALSO: The Garden State Guide To Essential Jersey Slang

As you can see, "Jersey Shore" painted us all wrong. We're more than just 'ah-range' tans and blowouts.