University of Oklahoma - Local Atmosphere

College Prowler Take

The atmosphere of Norman is very college-oriented. It’s smaller than Dallas, but bigger than Miami (Miami, Oklahoma, that is—pronounced “Miama” by the locals). As one student commented, the town really does feel a lot smaller than it is. Many people coming from larger towns have preconceived notions that Norman is strictly a farm town. Upon arrival, one will discover that this is simply not true. Norman is actually very progressive and often more hip and trendy than Oklahoma City. The community itself is a mixture of small-town good ol’ boys and girls from various parts of the state, along with many uptown snobs who grew up in the suburbs of Dallas. Overall, though, people are generally very friendly. Game days are intoxicating, if you’re into that sort of thing; and if you hate football, you should still consider taking part in game day activities. The cheers from the stadium can be heard for miles, and the smell of hot dogs and beer is enticing.

Because OU is the lone university in Norman, it is also the center of attention. Home décor is sometimes based on the colors crimson and cream, and the number of dogs answering to the name “Boomer!” are countless. OU’s fan base is largely comprised on non-students, including alumni and Oklahoma residents. This creates a supportive local atmosphere, but it may be too overwhelming for some.

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Students Speak Out

Anonymous says:

It’s a very fun atmosphere. I’m an... It’s a very fun atmosphere. I’m an outdoors person and there are bike trails, golf courses, and lakes nearby. No other universities are present in Norman, but there are a few in the city. 12345 Local Atmosphere Report

Anonymous says:

Norman is a great town. I loved it... Norman is a great town. I loved it from the second I arrived. 12345 Local Atmosphere Report

Anonymous says:

I think Norman is a very friendly... I think Norman is a very friendly town—I enjoy it. We have good museums and such. 12345 Local Atmosphere Report

Anonymous says:

Norman is pretty much dominated by... Norman is pretty much dominated by OU. OU is the best university in the state, so people look up to it. Stay away from the FIJI frat house, and go places in groups. Go to karaoke at Bill’s on Thursday nights, and check out the frat parties—they are really fun. 12345 Local Atmosphere Report

Anonymous says:

Dallas is close, so people go... Dallas is close, so people go there a lot. OK City is fun to go to. I love the zoo and stuff. It’s a great campus, and it’s so pretty. There are other universities near, but OU is certainly number one! 12345 Local Atmosphere Report

Facts

Did You Know?

Five Fun Facts about Norman:
• According to the sign before you enter on the main highway, Norman is the City of Festivals. These festivals include city-wide events like Jazz in June.
• Norman is recognized as one of the most progressive cities in the state of Oklahoma.
• Norman is home to many art and history museums, and
the University of Oklahoma inherited the single most important collection of French Impressionism ever given to a public university.
• Norman has many restaurants and bars with wonderful and unique atmospheres. They also brew their own beer, which is known as Harvest Wheat.
• Just outside of Norman, in Nobel, there is a winery.

Local Slang
Coke – Refers to every carbonated beverage, including, but not limited to, Coke itself.
“In a House” – This means that you are affiliated with a fraternity or a sorority. It will often be preceeded by “Are you?” Do not be alarmed when a person asks you this question before inquiring about your name.
Okie – A person native to Oklahoma, often used with negative connotations.
 

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Major: International and Area Studies/Spanish

Peter went to high school in Costa Rica for two years.

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