When I first made my college decision, a lot of people would just ask me, "why?". It seemed a bit random for me to be going to school in Nashville, Tennessee, especially because I had never shown interest in living in the south. I didn't really think anything of it, to be honest. However, now that I have officially spent my first year at school living in the south, I see why people back home are always curious as to why— it's so different!
If I learned anything from my time at school, it is how to live in the south. The environment is hotter, the people are nicer, and everything is so much slower.
One thing I was not prepared for was the accents— or, more specifically, the reactions I would get to my own accent. Whenever I meet someone for the first time, I usually can't say a sentence without them asking if I'm from the north, (the reactions even become comical when I follow up by saying I'm from Detroit). I didn't even realize that I had an accent, let alone having such a "thick" one (according to my roommates). It is very interesting to compare slang and dialect with others, especially on a campus where people come from all over the country. I will forever standby the fact that milk is pronounced with an "I" and not an "E", convenience stores are called party stores, and that a carbonated beverage like Pepsi or Coke is pop, not soda.
Another thing that is difficult to adapt to is how slow everything is. I'm not sure if it's because it's always so hot outside, or if people in the south just love to take their time, but things are so much slower down here— everything from how people talk to the traffic. In a way, I've come to appreciate it. I come from an environment where everyone is always on the go and in a hurry. When you're forced to slow down, it gives you a chance to breathe and allows you to remember that life is meant to be enjoyed. Take a walk, enjoy the sunshine (there's plenty of it). I'll just try not to get annoyed while walking behind you.
Perhaps one of the most life changing differences I have encountered down here would be the food. I have never heard or seen half of what is considered "southern style" food until I moved here. I used to think things like hush puppies and fried okra (is it a vegetable? why do you fry it?) were myths. Also, there are spices in everything. I can't tell you how many times I tried to have some potatoes or mac and cheese from the school cafeteria, and it was spicy! Who does that?
If there is something I love about the south, it's the outlook on life. Everywhere I look, people have a smile on their face, and are more than willing to lend a helping hand— even if you don't ask for it. I have met some of the most selfless and intentional people, those that will go out of your way to make you feel loved and comfortable. When you're this far away from home, what more could you ask for? I've learned how to let life happen and not sweat the small stuff. I may speak too quickly and will always be in a hurry, but I am perfectly satisfied with calling the south my home away from home.
