Why High Point University is the Ultimate Southern College Experience

Hey y'all! The Girls Go South crew is back with an exciting blog post about a gem we've discovered in our Southern college adventures—High Point University in North Carolina! As Northern transplants who came South for college, we're always exploring campuses that offer that perfect blend of Southern charm and academic excellence. Let's dive into why HPU has completely captured our hearts!

First Impressions: Southern Hospitality from Day One

Remember our first campus visit series where we toured schools across the Carolinas? From the moment we stepped onto High Point University's campus, the difference was palpable. While Northern universities often feel formal and reserved, HPU greeted us with the warmest Southern welcome imaginable.

Girls Go South Campus Visit Highlight: The student ambassadors actually remembered our names throughout the entire tour, and the admissions staff sent personalized follow-up notes—handwritten, not email! That level of personal touch is something we've found unique to Southern college culture.

Campus Beauty That Takes Your Breath Away

If there's one thing Southern schools do better than their Northern counterparts, it's creating gorgeous, inviting campuses—and HPU takes this to another level!

The campus feels like a perfect blend of traditional Southern architecture and modern luxury. With manicured gardens, rocking chairs on wide porches, and magnolia trees creating perfect study spots, every corner of HPU feels like it was designed for both Instagram and academic success.

Northern Girl Observation: Unlike our concrete-heavy campuses back home, HPU's outdoor spaces are actually designed to be used year-round thanks to the milder Southern climate. Outdoor classes and study sessions? Yes, please!

Academic Excellence with Southern Charm

What initially drew us to explore HPU was its reputation for combining rigorous academics with real-world preparation. The university's focus on life skills alongside traditional education is something we've found more common in Southern institutions than our Northern experiences.

Their approach to education includes:

• Small class sizes with professors who know your name (and actually invite students over for dinner!)

• Practical learning opportunities that connect classroom concepts to career readiness

• A unique focus on developing "soft skills" like communication and adaptability

• The famous "Success Coaches" program that pairs students with mentors throughout their college journey

The Professional Edge with Southern Connections

One major difference we've noticed between Northern and Southern schools is how universities like HPU integrate professional networking into everyday campus life. Their approach to preparing students for careers goes beyond the typical career center model.

The campus features corporate partnerships, executive spaces that mimic real-world business environments, and regular access to industry leaders that most students wouldn't encounter until well into their careers.

Girls Go South Career Insight: We attended an HPU professional development event where students were having casual coffee conversations with executives from major companies. That accessible, relationship-based approach to networking feels distinctly Southern and incredibly valuable!

Campus Life: Southern Traditions Meet Modern Amenities

HPU has mastered the art of honoring Southern traditions while providing luxurious campus amenities that would make even the most prestigious Northern schools jealous!

From what we've explored, campus life includes:

• Southern-style community dinners and social events that foster genuine connections

• State-of-the-art recreation facilities (including multiple pools and an on-campus steakhouse!)

• Strong Greek life presence with a uniquely Southern approach to sisterhood and community service

• Seasonal celebrations that embrace Southern traditions like proper tailgates and spring formals

Location, Location, Location

High Point's location in North Carolina's Piedmont region offers the perfect balance of Southern charm and accessibility. Nestled in the furniture capital of the world, the city provides unique internship opportunities while being just a short drive from larger cities like Charlotte and Raleigh.

For Northern girls like us, the location offers the quintessential Southern college experience without feeling too remote—the perfect balance for those still adjusting to life below the Mason-Dixon line!

The Secret Sauce: Extraordinary Campus Culture

What truly makes HPU stand out is its extraordinary campus culture. President Nido Qubein's leadership has created an environment that combines Southern hospitality with a success-oriented mindset. The university's motto, "Every student receives an extraordinary education in an inspiring environment with caring people," isn't just marketing—it's lived daily.

Our Girls Go South Perspective: As Northern transplants, we've found that Southern universities often excel at creating campus communities that feel like family. HPU takes this concept and amplifies it through intentional programming, faculty engagement, and physical spaces designed for connection.

Perfect for Northern Girls Heading South

For our Northern followers considering the big move South for college, HPU offers a gentle transition with:

• A diverse student body including plenty of fellow Northern transplants

• The perfect introduction to Southern traditions and culture

• All the warmth of Southern hospitality with world-class facilities

• Weather that lets you wear those cute sundresses almost year-round (unlike our snowy Northern campuses!)

Final Thoughts: Worth the Journey South

After exploring numerous campuses across the region for our podcast, High Point University stands out as an institution that embodies the best of what Southern college culture has to offer. From its beautiful campus to its innovative approach to education, HPU provides an experience that's distinctly Southern yet globally relevant.

For Northern girls considering a Southern college adventure, HPU definitely deserves a spot on your visit list! The unique blend of Southern traditions, extraordinary facilities, and genuine community create a college experience that's truly transformative.

Have you visited High Point University or have questions about other Southern schools? Drop us a comment on our latest podcast episode or tag us in your campus visit pics @GirlsGoSouth.Pod! We love helping fellow Northern girls navigate the exciting journey of college life in the South!

Follow along on Instagram @GirlsGoSouth.Pod, New posts every week!

Girls Go South is a podcast created by friends who relocated to North Carolina for college, sharing our journey of discovering Southern culture, food, fashion, and adventures!