From Our Students: Why Buffalo?
Published September 28, 2021
When you attend the University at Buffalo School of Law, you’re getting much more than a law school, you’re getting a city that has been going through a renaissance. We’ve spoken about UB Law students getting involved in the greater legal community, but what about the community itself?
The city of Buffalo gives students the chance to reside in a city of cultural significance and the crown jewel of the rust belt:
- Explore the city’s diversity through its many neighborhoods, markets and shops populated by a culturally rich community
- Discover the burgeoning food and drink scene as you eat your way through wing joints (obviously) and fine eateries while sipping some of the finest brews in the state of NY
- Take in some of the best football tailgating in the country while you cheer on the Buffalo Bills
- Dive into a rich music scene with venues like Mohawk Place, Babeville and the Town Ballroom
We could go on, but why not hear it from the students themselves? We reached out to some of our fantastic student ambassadors to get their thoughts on what makes Buffalo such a great city to live and study in.
What's a must-see, must-do Buffalo activity or experience?
Olivia Binda '23
Catching a show at Shea's Theatre or a concert at Artpark.
TJ Bullock '24
Biking around the city is a must-do. I’ve biked around quite a few cities, but Buffalo has by far been my favorite. Biking is far more enjoyable when you have a goal location in mind and Buffalo has great locations in spades. The Canalside harbor, restaurants/bars, social events, parks, or really anywhere along the lake, rivers or creeks. Biking is also easy in Buffalo—there might not be a trail that gets you everywhere but the drivers are so courteous to bikers.
Simon Honig '23
Walking the Elmwood & Hertel Avenue strips and checking out the amazing local businesses and restaurants. There are bookstores, record shops, vintage clothing stores and so much more.
Shelby Mueller '23
Take a tour of downtown Buffalo. We have beautiful architecture and an interesting cultural history.
Jenna Wojdan '24
I always suggest going on a mural tour in the city. It's a great way to get to different parts of the city and make some of your own discoveries along the way!
What’s your favorite Buffalo food or restaurant?
Olivia Binda '23
Audubon North for wings and chicken fingers; great value and huge portions. Thai Orchid for thai curry and pad thai; also a great value with big portions. Finally, Betty's for brunch; best for dietary restrictions and cocktails.
TJ Bullock '24
Dinosaur BBQ. I’m from Texas—the land of great BBQ, and Dinosaur really does it right.
Simon Honig '23
A small spot in Snyder called Rin Thai Bistro. They are a family-owned restaurant who used to be on Elmwood Avenue by Bidwell Park but are now on Main Street right by Harlem. Best Thai food I've ever had!
Julia Merante '23
Giacobbi's on Allen St—I am also a waitress there!
Shelby Mueller '23
Bar Bill! Cajun Honey Butter BBQ wings are the best.
How has the Buffalo/Western New York legal community helped make your law school experience a positive one?
Olivia Binda '23
The Western New York legal community is everywhere and so welcoming. I have run into attorneys and judges in Wegmans [grocery store] or out getting ice cream while wearing UB Law School clothing/accessories and they have come up to me to chat and always offer to mentor/help you get involved.
Simon Honig '23
I have chatted with many attorneys in the area both formally and informally, and they have expressed much pride, gratitude and sympathy for how my 1L class braved virtual learning in law school. I have been encouraged by so many to keep working hard as we have returned and adjusted to in-person learning.
Julia Merante '23
Everyone knows everyone. This is so lovely because networking and connections are so easily facilitated and opportunities are everywhere.
Shelby Mueller '23
I have worked in the Erie County District Attorney’s Office for a total of 20 months, prior to and during my time at UB Law. They have helped me grow personally and professionally in the legal community.
Zoe Peppas '23
The Western New York legal community, but especially the UB Law Alumni community, is extremely welcoming to law students. I have had the opportunity to network very easily with many successful local attorneys who have always been willing to offer advice and support.
What else makes the City of Good Neighbors so great?
Olivia Binda '23
I grew up in Buffalo and whenever I leave, I miss the people that truly make this the City of Good Neighbors. Buffalo is a community of different ethnicities and cultures that make up a vast immigrant settlement population. Those different backgrounds have helped to shape and make Buffalo unique. For most Buffalonians, all you need is "Go Bills" or the scent of Cheerios to elicit a smile or memory. I have enjoyed the recent revitalization efforts that are striving to take Buffalo to the future and beyond.
TJ Bullock '24
The real hidden gem of Buffalo is its diverse culture. Try to visit the different markets available to you. My favorite is the Asia Food Market on Niagara Falls Blvd., but there are all sorts of markets from Ukrainian to Thai to Mexican to really any immigrant community.
Simon Honig '23
I grew up in the North Towns of Buffalo and I have always loved my home. Such a strong sense of community and connectedness, passion for sports and some of the best food in the world. I don't think it can be beat!
Julia Merante '23
I have been here for a year now and I love the community, arts, food and opportunities this city has to offer. It is like no other.
Jenna Wojdan '24
The best thing about Buffalo is probably how much the people who live in Buffalo really love Buffalo! There's a lot of pride around the city. UB is such a huge part of the community, it's really infectious!
And there you have it! The passion for Buffalo is plain to see and UB Law is proud to be connected to such a wonderful city and legal community. Whether you’re moving here for school or staying close as you study in your hometown, there’s plenty to keep you involved and entertained throughout your education.
