<p>We were at RIT last week and it was really cold (but then again it was really cold in NJ too). Lighly snowed the evening before our visit and the day of the visit. While the hotel's parking lot wasn't cleared as well as I expected, RIT's lots and walkways were cleared completely. Obviously, snow is no big deal to them. Despite the cold, students were out and about. We did notice they dressed for it, unlike here in NJ where you see kids with jackets unzipped, no gloves or hats, etc. Lots of furry boots, scarves and long coats. Mid day there were plenty of students in the cafeteria by the bookstore. One thing we noticed was the low volume in the cafeteria. My daughter commented favorably on that aspect. Lots of signing going on. People seemed happy. Didn't notice any loners, sitting alone. The ice cream place was busy, which you wouldn't see here...BTW, although it was 3 degrees at night in Rochester, it was -10 or -15 (can't remember) in Syracuse.</p>
<p>Glad you had a good visit to Rochester. We don't whine about snow here unless we get like 4 feet overnight. And I tell everyone on these boards - Syracuse has WAY worse weather than us! ;)</p>
<p>I lived in Maine for a year so I know what real snow is like. The cold was easier to deal with than the blowing snow. I learned how to do donuts that year. I also learned that guys could play football in snow up to their thighs.</p>
<p>As for RIT, I think the quarter system is more of an issue than the cold weather. My daughter really likes the graphic design program (and there's a new major combining advertising photography with gd), but she just realized that she won't be on break when her friends are. </p>
<p>One consistent factor has been the positive feeling she gets from this school. Everyone we have come in contact with has gone above and beyond. I can't say that for other colleges we've visited.</p>