Learning Louisiana culture as a college kid

If you know me well, you likely know how much I value Hawaiian culture because of the islands’ heavy impact on my childhood and how it guided my worldview. Two summers ago, I returned to the state when I was 20 and my trip solidified everything I recalled about it. My return trip reminded me of how much I value culture regarding community and human identity. These reflective thoughts directly paralleled with how my move to Louisiana and immersion in a new home state’s culture excited me. A singular visit to Louisiana is all it takes to recognize that there is something unique and enthralling about the culture and history that makes the state all that it is. Before coming to school at LSU, I recognized that I had plenty to learn about the lay of my new land, but I never could’ve predicted how special I would come to find the culture of my home during college.  

To me, culture is a plethora of things, and plays a large role in the identity of one’s self. I’ve seen firsthand how Louisiana culture shapes families and lifestyles, and it’s been incredibly meaningful to immerse myself in such a place and intertwine it with personal views of myself in the world. 

While attending LSU for undergrad, I honestly believe I became conditioned to my surroundings and the culture in which I was immersed, so it’s been important for me to reflect on my time in Louisiana, particularly now that I’ve entered the new season of life which we all know as the “postgrad era.” When truly taking the time to think about what makes this place, both the school and the state so special, I always come back to how I felt at the end of my freshman year. I remember telling people back home- my friends and family- that my eyes were opened to a whole other world only a couple of states away and that my favorite experiences were rooted in cultural distinctions. Because I was an outsider to the state of Lousiana (prior to my singular visit to LSU’s campus before moving 500 miles away to Baton Rouge from my hometown), I believe I’m qualified to share just a glimpse of how much knowledge and experience immersion can occur within just four short years. 

Nestled in the southern U.S., Louisiana stands out as a vibrant mural of culture, history, and natural beauty. From the lively streets of New Orleans to the serene bayous and Cajun country, the state offers a distinctive experience. Louisiana’s cultural richness is a testament to its diverse heritage. Influenced by French, Spanish, African, Native American, and Caribbean cultures, the state has woven together a unique tapestry of traditions, music, cuisine, and language. The blend is evident in every aspect of daily life, from the colorful Mardi Gras celebrations to the soulful rhythms of jazz and blues echoing through the streets.

When I think of Louisiana culture, I think of the French Quarter in New Orleans. I think of deep family ties, lively traditions, and exquisite cuisine. Creole and Cajun flavors dominate, and Louisiana tends to be synonymous with food that tantalizes the taste buds and tells a story of its people. Dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, crawfish étouffée, and beignets are known to make mouths water across the globe. Food isn’t just sustenance in Louisiana; it’s a celebration of history and cultural fusion, enjoyed in cozy family kitchens and celebrated in restaurants alike.

When I think of Louisiana culture, I think of the strong presence of faith throughout the state and the unity it creates.  

I think of music that speaks to the soul and puts even the shyest dancers in motion. Jazz was born in New Orleans, evolving into a genre that symbolizes freedom and creativity. Blues, zydeco, and Cajun music further enrich the auditory landscape, offering a soundtrack to the state’s lively festivals and gatherings. Attending Jazz Fest in New Orleans during the spring of my senior year will forever be a core memory of mine. Enjoying a wide variety of music in such an immersive environment, one where crawfish bread is sold at every corner, inherently brings people together every year.

When I think of Louisiana culture, I think of open arms and friendships born in the community. Perhaps the most enduring aspect of Louisiana culture, and easily one of my favorites, is the state’s hospitality. Known for their warm welcomes and genuine kindness, Louisianans embrace visitors as family. I feel very blessed to have enjoyed many hometown visits in the places where my Louisiana native friends grew up. I can speak on countless occasions where my friends and their families have kindly hosted groups of my friends and me and generously shared the flavors and kindness of Louisiana with us. Whether you’re sharing a meal or listening to tales of local lore, you’ll find yourself enveloped in a sense of belonging that is as comforting as it is authentic.

Beyond its cities, Louisiana’s natural beauty is awe-inspiring. The state is crisscrossed by bayous, swamps, and rivers that teem with wildlife. As a place where nature and civilization coexist harmoniously, Louisiana offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. Though yes, it was certainly a touristy start, I did eagerly find myself on an airboat swamp tour with a guide during my first few months of living in Louisiana and was not disappointed. The relationship between man and wildlife- specifically the alligators in the bayou- was unlike anything I’d ever witnessed. The mysterious allure of the swamps and the magical feel of cypress trees draped in Spanish moss are impossible to ignore whether you’re in South Louisiana or on LSU’s campus in Baton Rouge. 

When I think of Louisiana culture, I think of the excitement surrounding Louisiana schools such as LSU and the appreciation of athletics, family ties, and celebration of diversity. 

I think of the saying “laissez les bons temps rouler,” meaning “let the good times roll,” and all that the phrase encompasses. What better place to attend college than the one that makes every minor thing feel like something worth celebrating? I think of Mardi Gras parades across the state, but I specifically reflect on each of my personal experiences with bead-catching and extravagant outfit-wearing on Fat Tuesday and the many days leading up to it in the heart of New Orleans. I would be remiss if I didn’t express that taking a trip to Nola for Mardi Gras and watching parades such as Endymion and Thoth should 10000% be a bullet point on everyone’s bucket list.

Louisiana’s beauty lies not only in its picturesque landscapes or savory cuisine but also in the spirit of its people and the depth of its cultural heritage. It’s a place where every visit feels like a journey into the heart of a living, breathing mosaic of traditions and stories. Whether you come for the music, the food, the history, the natural wonders, or even to attend college like I did, Louisiana welcomes you with open arms and leaves an indelible mark on your soul. In the face of modernization and change, I feel as though I’ve witnessed Louisiana hold steadfast to its cultural roots. Efforts to preserve traditions, languages like Cajun French, and historic landmarks are ongoing, ensuring that future generations can continue to experience the richness of this unique culture.

I hope that if you find yourself curious about living in or visiting the state of Louisiana, you open your eyes to all it encompasses. Furthermore, I encourage you to truly make the most of whatever city, state, and country you may find yourself in by exploring the unique cultures, rather than just going through the motions, while you have the time. You may be pleasantly surprised by all there is to unravel. 

Sincerely,

SB