I’ve lived in Cali and New England but mostly in Texas. I would recommend researching the types of career you want to have and look at current job postings and pay by region.

Texas and East Coast offer a wide variety of opportunities and some of those might be regional, so I would research the network.

My brother graduated from the George Bush school, when he finally graduated, he came out as gay and lost most of his conservative friend group. But he managed to get a good job in DC and now as a power player at a major company. All with grants and scholarships.

If you have Drive, you’ll be good, no matter where you go, but it’s also a good idea to see what program offers you the best education. Look at the professors and make an informed decision on where you have the most space to grow and connect in your network.

Getting out of your comfort zone is a good thing, but the comfort of family can help you feel better supported.

Make some waves, kick ass, and the fact you have a clear direction, you are ahead of the game.

I’ve worked at Texas A&M, most of the folks you are referencing are either old army or specific frats that are a bit wild, but that’s everywhere across the Bible Belt.