How dangerous are New York and Massachusetts for foreign students?

[Anonymous]

I have never been to the USA but I have heard that there is violent crime in many places. Here's the deal: I am much smaller than the average American person. I am only 5'4" and very skinny. Would this make me a very easy target for muggers or robbers? I'm not the type of person who gets into fights or would willingly go to shady areas.

I will be living in New York (Buffalo, Rochester, Suffolk County) or Massachusetts (Waltham).

[Oliverlogan263]

Dude, don't worry too much about it. New York and Massachusetts are generally pretty safe places as long as you use common sense. A few tips:

- Stick to well-lit, busy areas at night when walking alone. Take Ubers or public transit if going somewhere sketchy late.

- Don't flash expensive stuff like phones or wear headphones at night to be aware of your surroundings.

- Trust your gut - if a place feels iffy, dip out. But don't psych yourself out too much either thinking everywhere is dangerous.

- The cities you listed like Buffalo, Rochester, Waltham are definitely not dangerous. You'll be totally fine and normal walking around during the day.

- Sign up for your campus emergency alert system so you know if anything major happens nearby. But again, it's usually just precautionary.

- Buffalos got wings, Rochester has good concerts, Waltham is super safe suburban area. You'll have a sick time bro!

Being smaller doesn't automatically make you a target. Muggings can happen anywhere but they're rare. Use the transit, stay in groups at night if worried, and you'll be good dude! Don't let fear run your experience.

[exitseven]

Waltham is okay. Most of the Boston suburbs are pretty safe. Boston can be a problem if you do not know where not to go/

[strateguy632]

when you asked okay but now for example colombia university new york and other colleges are problematic.

[normalice]

It's about the same as anywhere, frankly.

[Asker]

Have you ever witnessed or experienced violent crime? I have literally never been physically assaulted in my whole life, nor have I witnessed a fight other than silly road rage incidents. I have been pickpocketed a few times, that's about it. Therefore I am completely unprepared for any kind of physical violence directed towards me. I do not know self defence. What would be the best advice for me?

[normalice]

That makes you basically the same as 90% of the US. There isn't really any advice to be had beyond just common sense precautions.