<p>Having grown up in a quaint little suburb, I wanted to live in a different environment during college, so I loved that Lewiston was a real city rather than a picture-perfect/typical college town. Lewiston is an old mill town that became a bit rough, but now there’s a revitalization effort going on (see <a href=“http://laitshappeninghere.com/)%5B/url%5D”>http://laitshappeninghere.com/)</a>. And the efforts aren’t just talk – even during my two years I’ve seen infrastructure improvements and felt a gentle shift in the feel of the community.</p>
<p>My friends and I are always saying that we wished we spent more time in Lewiston. I think the truth of the matter is that most people are often too busy to take the time to get to know it. We always have so much happening on campus that it’s often hard to find a spare moment to get away from it. It does take some effort to get to know where some of the cute thrift stores are and such, but it’s worth it. Last year, my most frequent visits to downtown Lewiston were probably: 1. Going to a restaurant downtown to celebrate someone’s birthday 2. Going to a local elementary school as part of a community service program 3. Going to Lewiston Maineiacs (hockey – future NHLers) games. All of these are within easy walking distance.</p>
<p>In terms of safety, I feel totally comfortable walking downtown during the day. At night, I don’t walk alone downtown, but I feel fine as long as there’s someone else with me. Bates Security has a saferide/walk service as well.</p>
<p>Hope that was understandable and helpful. Let me know if I can help you with anything else. Obviously I’m Bates-biased, but I wouldn’t have it any other way!</p>
<p>PS- I think of Maine and Minnesota as having the nicest people, so you daughter would feel right at home in terms of whether and people! I hope she continues to pursue Bates.</p>