Congrats on all the recent acceptances! I have a question I was wondering if in-state people can answer. I was really impressed with WF after my interview and sent my deposit in a long time ago. Recently I shadowed a pediatrician from NC. She didn't attend WF but went to UNC and says that the conservative atmosphere in the south is the reason she left for a more liberal state. Also, she said that she expected highly-educated people to be more open-minded but at a recent medical school reunion she was shocked by some of the statements she heard. The thing that bothered me most was her claim that KKK meetings still go on in NC, especially over on the east side!? This is not the impression I got at all when I interviewed! I thought everyone was nice and very helpful. I realize that this is the opinion of just one person but if someone can chime in on their experiences living in NC, I'd really appreciate it.
To preface, I am very liberal and I'm from Winston-Salem.
First, UNC is one of the more liberal schools in the Southeast. I'm very surprised she found/finds her cohort to be conservative. I don't know how old this person is but UNC's current med classes are exceptionally diverse and generally quite moderate to liberal.
As for Winston-Salem and North Carolina at large, I am afraid she has a VERY warped perception of reality. To be quite honest, I just moved to NC from California and there are PLENTY of hyper-conservative, bigoted nutjobs in CA, just as there are in NC. The truth is they are everywhere.
It's not as if 2 or 3 of every 10 people you pass in North Carolina are card-carrying KKK members. Yes, the KKK remains clandestinely active....across many states. It is what it is. The Research Triangle and the Piedmont Triad areas of North Carolina are home to very well-educated people, many from other parts of the country. Additionally, they possess great arts scenes, good food, etc. You'll enjoy NC.
This individual's claim is a true outlier. Again, I've lived in LA, DC, and Atlanta, and I would NEVER claim NC or the South, in general, is that bad.
My best advice is: just spend some time there and you will understand - you're going to find silly people wherever you go but NC is one of the best states in the country, in my opinion.
