<p>I've been searching the archives here... and it seems as though the Bronx is supposed to be terrible enough to make people not go to the school. Is it that bad? Right now I'm 90% sure it's where I want to go, but I also haven't visited yet (I plan to in the next few weeks). My parents are already against me going there because they think the location is terrible, and well, I don't want them to visit and be that much more against me going, I guess...</p>
<p>Don't trust your parents about this.</p>
<p>I've visited 2 times, once in the summer and once in the fall. The campus is amazing. You have the botanical gardens on the east side of campus (i think) and Little Italy to the South (i think). Little Italy is a really cool place to go with tons of great Italian food and shops.</p>
<p>As for the campus, I would compare it to Boston College, except in a city and not on the outskirts. The campus is extremely safe from what I can see with security booths at all entrances. Take a trip and see for yourself.</p>
<p>Oh I definitely don't trust my parents as they tend to be paranoid... but they're the ones with the ultimate say of where I go to school. Ahhhh I hope I get enough aid to persuade my parents.... :</p>
<p>Well, its not suburbia, I'll tell you that much. I can see someone not from NY and not used to the sights and sounds of the Bronx getting a little intimidated, but I assure you that its a great place. Especially on campus - if you dont have a Fordham I.D. you need to state your business at any and all the gates, otherwise youre not coming in. But like anywhere else, you have to use a little street smarts, and a lot of common sense when walking down the streets. If it's late, try to walk with the crowd and not by yourself, just simple stuff like that. There are areas that you definitely don't want to get stuck out there on your own, but you will be able to spot those areas a mile away, granted you have the already aforementioned skills.</p>
<p>AMILkita - this may be a long shot, but have you been to Hyde Park in Chicago (home of University of Chicago)? Hyde Park isn't the best area, either. And it's what I am mentally-comparing RH to. Hyde Park is considered "bad" but it's not terrible. The thing is, I live about 20 minutes from Hyde Park and my parents didn't see it as a terrible place... yet I just mention the Bronx and they freak out. We're visiting, though, so maybe if I make constant parallels to Chicago they'll calm down a little..</p>
<p>I've never been or heard of Hyde Park, but I do know of UC. I also know that it's a great thing you and your parents will be coming down to see the campus. Try to come right before summer when the flowers are blossoming, it's a sight to see. And make sure you dont get lost on your way or you will find yourself having a much more difficult time trying to convince them ;-) lol.</p>