
South
The Southern United States is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and warm hospitality. In vibrant cities like New Orleans, Atlanta, and Nashville, students can experience a unique blend of music, cuisine, and traditions. Studying abroad in this region offers opportunities to explore historical landmarks, engage with local communities, and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Additionally, the South is home to prestigious universities that provide excellent academic programs and a welcoming environment for international students.
What is it like to live here?

Climate
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Climate Type: Mostly humid subtropical; tropical in South Florida; semi-arid in West Texas.
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Winters: Mild, short, and wet (rare snow outside higher elevations).
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Summers: Very hot and humid, with high heat index values; daily thunderstorms are common.
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Precipitation: Summer is the wettest due to storms and occasional hurricanes (AKA tropical cyclones, or typhoons in other parts of the world).

Landscape
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General Landscape: Flat coastal plains, swamps, rolling hills, and some highlands inland.
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Key Features:
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Gulf and Atlantic Coastal Plains with sandy beaches and marshlands.
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Appalachian foothills in the interior (e.g., Blue Ridge Mountains).
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Mississippi River and its vast delta region.
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Everglades in southern Florida – a vast and unique subtropical wetland.
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Pine forests and fertile farmland inland.
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Topography: Generally low-lying, but varies from the low bayous of Louisiana to the hills of Texas.

Culture
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Cultural Identity:
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Deeply influenced by tradition, hospitality, and religion.
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Strong emphasis on family, manners, and community values.
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Rich heritage of music (blues, jazz, country, gospel), cuisine (soul food, barbecue), and storytelling.
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Demographics & History:
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Complex legacy shaped by slavery, the Civil War, and the Civil Rights Movement.
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Significant African American cultural influence.
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Rapidly growing Latino population, especially in Texas and Florida.
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Lifestyle & Values:
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Generally more conservative socially and politically.
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Church life is central — "Bible Belt."
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Culture in the Arts:
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Home to musical hubs like Nashville, New Orleans, and Atlanta.
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Featured Universities

Duke University (North Carolina)
Elite private university known for medicine, law, and strong athletics.

​University of Virginia (UVA) (Virginia)
Founded by Thomas Jefferson; respected for public service, law, and the liberal arts.

Vanderbilt University (Tennessee)
Private research university known for education, medicine, and policy.

University of Texas at Austin (Texas)
Flagship public university with top programs in engineering, business, and law.
What type of person would study in the South?
🌴 Southern United States
Best for students who are:
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Social, community-oriented, and value hospitality
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Drawn to tradition, religion, or conservative culture
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Interested in business, medicine, education, law, or southern U.S. history
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Want warm weather and are okay with humidity
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May want strong athletics or faith-based campus life
Ideal student profile:
A student who’s proud of their roots, enjoys SEC football Saturdays, and wants to be part of a close-knit campus with warm weather and a strong sense of community.