Running Dilemma/Questions

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I really like running [whenever that actually happens], and with my wedding in the next year I want to find an exercise routine or activity that I really enjoy and that challenges me.  I've been blessed cursed with somewhat muscular thighs, and so many runners have said I would be great at it, because I seem to have the leg strength blah blah blah.  For quite some time now I have wanted to get out and just run.  Problem is that where I go to school, the area is not so safe, or maybe it is a little bit, but just not "safe" enough for me to go running on a trail alone.  I've tried the whole running with a friend thing, but 9 times out of 10 the other person doesn't want to run, they slow me down or speed me up, and I just feel like I don't enjoy the run as much as I would if I was alone.  I have a membership to one of the local gyms, but there is nothing that I hate more than running on a treadmill...I feel like a hamster! 

So, my question is to all of you runners out there, or others who have suggestions, how do you find time to run?  With a busy schedule and now daylight savings I feel like I have no time at all to run before it gets dark! Also, if you run by yourself how do you keep yourself "feeling safe?"