Shame to pass up UC Davis in-state, for animal science, but it sounds like you have compelling reasons to be on the east coast.
Your career interests as described are likely to be pretty low-paying, at least at first, so that’s something to consider in terms of whether a super-expensive undergrad degree makes sense. Also, you’re more likely to find a range of interesting animal science related programs at a public land-grant university. UMass-Amherst is a great example. (Whereas NYU, for example, seems like a questionable fit, not to mention $$$$$.)
URI could be worth a look; the direct trains get you there from NYC in 3.5. Great coastal location, pretty close to the city of Pro vidence. https://web.uri.edu/favs/academics/animal-science-and-technology/ It would be an admissions safety, and you’d get into the honors program; a big merit award would definitely be possible.
U of Delaware is another flagship U that’s in geographic range and has an animal science program, without being too rural/remote. The direct train gets to Penn Station in 2.5 hours.
Again, you could expect honors and merit. It’s a charming suburban campus with a similar vibe to many private colleges, and there’s a lot of interesting programming within the Honors College Honors College | University of Delaware
Bryn Mawr shows that you’re open to women’s colleges, so why not Smith and/or Mount Holyoke in addition to Amherst College - all in the consortium with UMass.
Good luck considering your options! It seems as if you’re trying to balance prestige vs. access to the kind of programs you’re really interested in. IMHO, it’s the hands-on stuff that will keep you excited about your education and connect you with interesting career opportunities.