Okay, first you should figure out why you want a Northern style as opposed to Southern style. I think there are over 14,000 registered martial arts of China (maybe I am missing a 0). General diffrences between North and South is North use more legs (kicks) while South is more grounded and use more upper body. Again it is just a generalization. Now, Kung Fu can have VAST diffrences, what is it you are looking to get in the art? I know you are athletic as you are a cheerleader, In that I would think if you could find an Eagle Claw school, you would really like it, it has acrobatic feathers, but is also a fast art. Remember, all arts have their uses, but ultimately it is the practitioner that makes the art great. So at this point, I would suggest finding any school that is 1. close by and 2. not expensive and see what you like, get your feet wet and from their you can make a more informed choice as to which art you wish to persue.
Just my $0.02
