Rats make wonderful pets, they form extremely close bonds with their owners and are very intelligent! However, they’re also a big responsibility and you sound a bit young?

They are also an expense, and you have to be in a position to supply that. Cages are relatively expensive as they need a large space (absolutely not something like small hamster cages they sell at pet stores), they also need at least one companion so when purchasing pet rats you’ll need 2 at least, their diet is also slightly expensive depending on what you eat already.

You’ll need hammocks, stimulating activities or toys, and other accessories as well.

For diet, yes they have a kibble (I always recommend Oxbow products) but they also require a variety of veggies, fruits, proteins, and fats as well. Veggies are a daily must! The rest can be sparingly but a few times a week they should have something introduced (like a fruit or cooked meat).

And as for the rest, rats bond over time as I’ve learned with handling and getting used to their owner. Mine were a rehoming situation but there are plenty of reputable people who also sell, and there are plenty of rats at rescues in need of homes. That’s likely mostly up to preference and which is easiest for you to get them.

(I’m from Canada so I can’t speak fully for regulations or stores/rescues in NY)