Super - After reading your post I can see why your going to a community college in Central NY, not even a good one at that.
Keith - Your talking about James St. when like 15 - 20 yrs ago, you say "when we were kids". Its not the worst place in the city by far to live but I think the hill would...
Stay away from James St., not a safe area by any means. Look up around the University on the "Hill" , there are always places for rent and most are with in walking distance of campus.