RSC, RPI, HVCC, these abbreviations, although short and simple, are a lot more complex than they appear. Russell Sage College, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and Hudson Valley Community College, are more than just names of local schools.

To some, they are the roads to successful careers and to others, an opportunity to meet different types of people. To the small city of Troy, New York these institutions of higher learning add approximately 7000 students, to Troy's ever changing population.

These prestigious schools are just a few among many, throughout the Tri-City Area, but they have something in common, that separate them from the rest. They're located in one of the most unique cities in the Capital District. Troy's beautiful brown-stone buildings, intriguing history and diverse population capture the attention of residents as well as students.

Although education should be a student's main priority in college, one's surroundings can either add excitement to years of studying or cause depression and unnecessary headaches. Students look at Troy from various angles and find both advantages and disadvantages, to attending school in this small city.

The local colleges provide social activities on their individual campuses, but students are often left wondering: "Is there life off campus? Is their life in Troy?"

Elda's, Terra Luna, On Broadway. Troy's down-town area can be quite disappointing for students who aren't into the local club scene. On some nights these downtown clubs and others like them are filled with college students, partying to the latest pop songs.

Those who are uninterested in the styles of music or the crowds of people feel they must go outside of Troy to find other ways to have fun.

"The colleges are what keep the city going" said Andrea Washington, Russell Sage College, class of 97.

"If the city wants students to stay in the area they need to do more to appeal to college students", continued Washington .

Many students like Washington believe that Troy should invest more money in attracting private businesses. Putting a movie theater and shopping mall down-town would encourage students to invest money in the area.

New businesses would fill the rows of abandoned buildings that line the down-town area. It would also help change Troy's 'Ghost Town' appearance to the true college town it should be.

RPI sophomore Dorian Bubeck believes Troy isn't much of a college town and unlike other cities it lacks a prosperous Art and Theater districts. Interestingly, history tells a different story . In the past Troy was filled with life, wealth and prosperity .

Today, although Troy could use some improvements, it isn't as lifeless as students believe. Troy has a number of attractions that college students can easily take advantage of. Dining out is a fun and easy way take a break from school and get to know the area better.

Experience delicious Chinese cuisine at China Pagoda or enjoy good seafood as you look over the Hudson River at Castaways. These are just two of the many affordable restaurants located in the down-town area.

Visit one of the worlds finest concert halls, Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, built in 1875. Explore Rensselaer County Historical Society/Hart Cluett Mansion and Museum. Entertainment can also be found in Troy at Frear, Prospect and Knickerbacker Parks. Equipped with golf courses, basketball courts, ice-skating rinks, pools and more all for free.

College isn't complete without long nights of studying which call for lots of coffee. What better place to enjoy great coffee than Troy's down-town coffee shops. Higher Grounds, Daily Grind and Caffe Dolce not only serve great coffee, but some provide great entertainment.

Like any city Troy has it's ups and downs and over all Troy isn't half bad. Students must change their ways and do a little investigating in order to have fun. College is preparation for life's changes and changes are what life is all about.

In cooperation with Troy United Ink Corp., a not-for-profit corporation
Items published herein do not necessarily represent the opinions of Troy United Ink Corp., its officers or it's Board of Directors.

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