Appalachia: Athens Student POV

         Appalachia is a very big region on the east side of the United States. As a member of the Ohio University- Athens community, we are living within the boundaries of Appalachia. To start off on the journey to figure out what Appalachia really is, we decided to define it ourselves. We define Appalachia as the mountainous eastern United States. We believe it is a lot of small towns that have previously thrived from industries based on their surroundings such as the coal industry. The people in this area are predominantly living in what would be described as the country.

       After we decided on what to define Appalachia, we decided to interview three of our friends about what their definitions were. Among our surprise, their definitions were filled with stereotypes and negativity. Our first friend, Bernie, said he defined Appalachia as mountainous terrain, trailers, and bearded people. Our friend, De, describe it as poor, hillbilly, and incested. Lastly, our friend Nikki described it as mountains, hillbillies, people who don't shower, and dirt roads. When asked if they defined themselves as Appalachian now that they live here, all three answered no.

       The relationship and disparity between Ohio University and the rest of the county is huge. The majority of Athens County is very similar to the rest of Appalachia and extremely poor; yet, Athens, is ranged and boasting with business due to the college presence. The communication and relationship between Ohio University and the county is not notoriously great, considering at times it seems the locals have a sense of resentment towards the students for taking over their area. We believe to increase relations and communication, Ohio University should make an effort to point out we are not trying to overtake their area, but trying to coexist. The majority of Ohio University students actually enjoy the small town feel of Athens. We believe if Ohio University students make it clear they want to incorporate the Appalachian values and not overpower them then the two different lifestyles can coexist peacefully.