Only place you don't want brakes is if you're riding in a velodrome. Just having the brakes on your bike will not slow you down by any significant amount, and if you install them neatly, won't look bad. You can still skid all you want. But there will be a moment when you are GLAD those brakes are there.

Regardless of the endless discussions on this and other boards, think for yourself and use common sense. Brakes are cheaper than medical bills. Same with helmets.

You're already cooler than most of your peers - how many other students ride fixies to your school?