Many countries all over the world have more than one culture, even in the United States. Regional differences play a huge role in the development of other cultures within a country. In the United States, the largest difference in culture is between the north and the south. If you are a student coming to America to learn about our ways, the culture you’ll learn about will be determined by where you choose to stay. I’m originally from Georgia, but my father’s side of the family is from Wisconsin. When my brother and I were growing up my dad would take us to visit twice a year, so I’ll share some of the differences I’ve experienced.
Just like cultures in other countries, the food will be similar but some traits will vary. People typically eat the same food in America, but it is prepared differently. Chicken is a great example. Fried chicken is preferred in most southern households compared to baked or roasted chicken. Other foods that are popular in the south are potato salad, collard greens, corn bread, BBQ ribs, fried pork chops, and the list goes on. In the north roasted and baked meats are more traditional. Wisconsin, in particular, has a heavy German influence, so they favor bratwurst in comparison to hotdogs. Poppy seed deserts are very popular up north too. My grandma would always have poppy noodles or poppy seed pie to munch on after dinner.
The most recognizable difference is the way people talk in the north and south. In Georgia, people talk with what they call a “country accent” or “southern accent.” We like to use words such as “y’all”, which means “you all,” and “fixin,” which means “you are about to do something.” An example of “fixin” would be, “I’m fixin to go to the grocery store.” Northerners equivalent to “y’all” would be “you guys.” They call soft drinks “pop,” while southerners call them “soda” and sometimes even refer to all soft drink brands as “Coke.” I also experienced another huge difference while working as a waitress. When someone without a southern accent asks you for tea, make sure to ask if they want un-sweet tea. In the south, tea means “sweet tea” versus un-sweet tea in the north.
This barely chips away at the iceberg of differences between the northern and southern cultures in America, but it gives you a glimpse of what you would expect to see. Make sure to consider our ELI program in Columbus, Ga if you are curious about the southern way of life. It doesn’t get any more authentic! For more information visit ColumbusState.edu/ELI or call 706.507.8070
-Kindra Hunter
