Trying to figure out if a rabbit is a good pet for me, so I have some questions

Hi all,

Sorry if these questions are answered elsewhere. I've done some research, but I've found conflicting information.

I'm 20 years old and currently a rising senior in college. I've always been around animals and really want a pet. I'm doing research on both rabbits and dogs (I'm allergic to cats) for after I graduate. I'm currently leaning towards rabbits because, while I like dogs well enough, I feel like rabbits

Here are my questions:

How long can I leave rabbits alone? I'll be home quite a bit, especially in the morning and evening when google tells me they're most active, but I will have to go to work during the day.

How easily do rabbits die of fright? I like to occasionally have people over, normally small gatherings in the living room but occasionally larger parties (20-30 people) in the basement. If I keep the rabbit in my room (2nd floor), would that be quiet enough?

How bad is the mess? I've seen these little plastic boxes (with an open top) that have a door the rabbit can use to get in and out of, and you can put the food and litter box in there, but I'm wondering how much that actually helps?

How easy/hard is it to teach a rabbit to be held? Is it easier if I start as a baby?

Thanks for reading/answering!

Edit: Would you recommend getting only one rabbit or a pair?