You don't actually have to ride drop handlebars down in the drops. You can shift & brake if your hands are on top of the hoods... and you can ride with your hands on the flat section of the bar.
Why not test ride a drop handlebar bike?
If you want the bike for commuting - you might prefer a hybrid or flat bar type bike because you're more upright and it makes it easier to see traffic & whats going on around you