30F, graduated VCU in 2013, moved back and lived in both areas people like to scare talk about - first next to the Exxon/McDonalds in Shockoe and now in Manchester.

Campus is extremely safe and only getting safer, you'll be ok, the fan is where you'll probably end up living as it's kind of the default for students and it's also pretty chill. You'll be good, the shady areas are pretty obvious but also honestly not that bad, it's just when something happens people get loud. All in all, welcome! Be chatty and open and you'll make friends easy here, and good luck with your studies!