<p>I want to jump in with a slightly different perspective. We know a young woman who had a chance to go to more of a conservatory program (with a greater cost) or take a full ride at a smaller university with a “nice” music department. She rode the crest, got her degree and is teaching at the local high school. AND - her voice is a fraction of what it looked like it could have been according to her original voice teacher. She didn’t have to push herself because she was already at the top of the department. The lack of competition was a real detriment to her.<br>
Now - I’m not talking about state schools with great music programs (Crane, Fredonia, etc.) And from your screen name and profile, you’re at the age where others are attending the name grad schools, Internships, etc. My 2 cents: Push yourself to the absolutely best program you can handle, both financially and talent-wise. Good luck!</p>