elizabethh

For anyone at Alabama - how do you think a guy from Southern California would fit in at your school? My son has applied, mostly based on his passion for college football and a few visits to Atlanta to visit family, which he really liked. He is very social, very outgoing, but most definitely a California kid. Any opinions?

feenotype

No doubt he would have to make some adjustments, but the people are friendly and welcoming.

mom2collegekids

Elizabeth...

We are from Southern California. We moved to Alabama with my H's job. It is not a "big adjustment" at all to live or go to school in Alabama. Many kids who go to Alabama are not "native" Alabamians even tho it may now be their "home state". There are thousands of transplants living here now (because of high tech jobs), and many of their kids go to UA.

Tuscaloosa is a nice, normal city. It is growing with the school. Many new shops, restaurants, etc. Therefore, many opportunities for part-time jobs for students.

As feeno noted, the people are very friendly and welcoming.

SEA_tide

I agree that there will be some differences between Tuscaloosa and SoCal, but they will be minimal. I know a couple Californians here at UA and they love it. Since your son "has a passion for college football," he will probably have an easier time adjusting when it comes to football season (though UA is much more than just an excellent football program). I think the bigger issue would be living away from home, which is going to be an issue at almost any college he'd choose. Alabamians are very friendly and Tuscaloosa has just about everything a student would want/need. You mentioned that your son was very outgoing, so that is even better. I would definitely recommend visiting campus and checking things out to be sure.