Whether you're from across the States, studying abroad, or even living near Maryland nothing can prepare you for the culture shock that is Baltimore.
You'll be bleeding Orioles Orange and Ravens Purple before you even realize it with this list of Baltimore truths:
1. They really love crabs.
And, you'll have a lot of difficulty eating them for the first time. Be sure to wear clothes you don't care about, and bring Maryland natives to show you how it's done.
2. Old Bay: Fries, potato chips, you name it, it's on it.
There is never a shortage. If you don't have it, your neighbor down the hall will.
3. The Maryland State flag is obsessive.
Whether it's university attire, the Raven's jersey and pretty much anything else that could have a flag on it, it exists. Maryland rubber ducks, anyone?
4. Maryland residents combine the love of crabs and their flag by placing a magnet on every vehicle they own.
It's impossible to walk through any parking lot or drive down a highway without seeing them.
5. Baltimore is not sure if they're from the North or the South.
Being below the Mason-Dixon line and identifying as Northern has it's challenges.
6. Country music becomes more enjoyable then you ever thought possible.
You'll learn to appreciate the dance parties in your car while listening to WPOC. Trust me. You. WILL.
7. It's pronounced BALDIMORE. The 't' is silent.
Even Tracy Turnblad got that one wrong.
8. Everyone talks about their hometowns by county, not the actual town. (HoCo, MoCo, BoCo)
Just nod and smile, boys.
Supporters of the opposing teams are easy to spot when this moment occurs.
10. No one uses a turning signal, knows how to turn into their correct lane, or come to a complete stop.
PLEASE LEARN HOW TO DRIVE. And, watch out for Baltimore County speed cameras on I-695.
11. On Sunday's, it's necessary to cheer for the Ravens to win because that means one thing: FREE MEDIUM COFFEE MONDAY.
FREE IS FOR ME.
12. They have more pride for their city, and state, than any other in the country.
