8 Signs Your Roommate is From New Jersey

At the University of Maryland, if you aren’t an in-state student (like myself), there’s probably a decent chance that you’re from New Jersey. In my time here, I’ve become close friends with a few of these New Jersey residents, and I’ve learned a thing or two about the state and it’s people. I’ll say that rooming with a New Jersey native has both it’s perks and it’s downfalls, but at the end of the day you love them regardless. So if you aren’t sure what I’m talking about, here’s some of the obvious signs that you’re living with someone from New Jersey:

1. They complain about local food.

They claim that no pizza/bagel created in any other state besides New York or New Jersey is ever good.

2. Their driving.

They are an extremely aggressive driver, and will no doubt complain about having to pump their own gas.

3. They don't have an indoor voice.

They scream 90% of what they say in normal day to day conversations.

4. They're obsessed with Taylor Ham.

They act like “Taylor Ham”, or otherwise known as pork roll, is some sort of holy meat that surpasses all other breakfast meats, and take personal offense to anyone who doesn’t know what it is. But it is actually bland and nothing compared to bacon.

5. They have weird slang.

If you ask what part of New Jersey they’re from, they’ll most likely just tell you the exit they get off on the parkway. Meanwhile you’re like:

6. They're offended by Olive Garden.

They think Olive Garden is a disgrace to Italian food and will NEVER step foot in one.

7. They're obnoxious about sports.

If they're from New Jersey, chances are they’re an extremely obnoxious fan of either the Yankees or the Giants.

8. They think New Jersey is the best state in the union.

They act like their state is superior to all others, but they’re actually just a knock-off New York.