collegefinger

Give it a chance.

Rochester is a hidden gem. True, it's not a metropolitan city but it's not an abandoned town either (sort of). You have to be pretty explorative to find some stuff, but there really is some nice things here. There are pubs and clubs down at Alexander Street, a neat little art scene, some awesome indie bands play here (avicii, anyone?) and the restaurants are awesome. It's pretty much a hipster's dream. But if you want to go anywhere, you need a car. Or plan accordingly with the shuttles and a map.

If you're adventurous enough, you could always drive out to a campground for a weekend with friends by the lakes, or go to the beach if it's in season.

During breaks, you could always go to Toronto and NYC, not that far away either.

And even if the city starts to turn creepy, going back to U of R always feels better.

People tend to complain a lot because they're so absorbed by the U of R bubble. If you broke away and actually got out and looked around, you might be able to see some cool stuff. I'm a freshman, and I've seen a lot of awesome things already. Though, I admit transportation is a bit of an issue.

It's an effort.

There's a few share of cute guys. The problem is that some of them are incredibly socially awkward. I'm sure not all of them are, but I've encountered some pretty awkward guys who act like they've never met people before. You really have to work hard to break the barrier sometimes. You can meet guys at a party and they seem pretty fun and all, it's just a different thing if they decide to talk to you the next day. I suppose my only advice is get involved in the social scene by going to school clubs/parties, be assertive without seeming too creepy, and all the luck you need.

I came during Rochester's best year.

Maybe the weather did suck back then when there were blizzards for a straight 6 months last year or so, but I'm a first year student who was lucky enough to experience Rochester's best winter ever. Sometimes the days are really sunny and the snow is really pretty during those days, and sometimes there's no snow at all. Sure, sometimes it's gloomy and rainy but just for a day or two. Other than that, the weather's great. Let's just hope it stays that way.

Just Don't Be Obnoxious.

If you're prancing around outside and obviously blacked out drunk/stoned, you will get in trouble. The fines for your actions are extremely expensive, and they take these matters very seriously. Security or cops will always bust a party (or at least just take a look around) so whenever they show up, just put your drink down (if you're under) and act normal. If it's the cops, they might ask everybody to leave though this is usually the case with frat parties off-campus that gets too loud. My only advice is just don't get too s***-faced in public. It won't be fun for you or anybody else. Other than that, you can still have fun.