<p>candid- You've probably left already, but in case you haven't, I would recommend looking north of campus (around the area of the Row). This is where you will find the hub of student living. All our apartments, houses, etc. If anyone ever wants a tour of my apartment (one of the main student ones university-owned, off-campus for sophomores and above), and a "real" tour of campus, where you see the stuff you really need to know, just PM me. I'd love to show you around, and let you get a feel for things.</p>
<p>I would also recommend you walk to the Coliseum from campus (or you can just drive there, too, I guess). You'll get to see the Rose Garden, beautiful museums, and get a feel for the football stadium.</p>
<p>Also go into the food areas on campus (EVK, Parkside, Cafe 84, Commons), which are the main places students eat. You can see the food offered (Krispy Kreme, Jamba Juice, Mexican, Chinese, etc), and see the atmosphere.</p>
<p>It's probably too late to suggest all this, since you may have left already, so I'll stop with that. If you do get this before leaving, and want to know more places to look at, or want a apartment tour or anything, let me know!</p>
<p>usckixass- Definitely tell your parents not to worry. Many girls are sent here "on their own" from far away. Just this morning I did a volunteer event with girlfriends from Kentucky, Missouri, and New York. We are all fine and love it here. </p>
<p>The area is not as bad as it is made out to be. Just follow the basic rules of don't walk alone in the wee hours and pay attention to your surroundings. It's not too hard to do. You're going to get a great college experience here, area INCLUDED. And you're a short drive from anywhere you need to go.</p>