Explain It to Me The United States is Southern now
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Sep 7, 2025 In this engaging discussion, Amanda Moll, a Senior reporter at Bloomberg focused on Southern topics, and Elizabeth Bronwyn Boyd, author of Southern Beauty, dive into the shifting cultural landscape of the U.S. They explore why more students from the Northeast are flocking to Southern colleges, fueled by vibrant campus cultures and social media trends like 'Rush Talk.' The conversation also touches on the evolution of Southern womanhood and how historical changes have shaped modern identity, making the South a potent influence on American culture.
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Southern Colleges Are Recruiting Nationwide
- Northern student enrollment at Southern universities surged roughly 88% over a decade and accelerated after the pandemic.
- Southern publics now recruit nationally, drawing Northeastern students with lower costs and big-campus culture.
Pandemic And Price Pushed Students South
- The pandemic accelerated the shift as Southern campuses stayed more open and maintained football and social life.
- Cost also matters: southern public tuition can be $10k–$15k cheaper than Northeastern options for many students.
Football And Greek Life As Recruitment Engines
- College football and Greek life act as major recruitment tools by creating intense community and school spirit.
- Universities treat gamedays and sorority networks as marketing that fuels enrollment and fundraising.
